Minimally Invasive Urological Surgery
Robotic Surgery in Urology
Robot-assisted surgery is an evolution of the laparoscopic approach, allowing the surgeon to perform complex urological procedures through small incisions using articulated instruments and magnified 3D imaging. At LEFKOS STAVROS – The Athens Clinic, the 4th-generation Da Vinci X system is used for selected urological procedures.
The robot does not operate autonomously. Every instrument movement is controlled in real time by the surgeon.
Da Vinci X, 4th Generation
The Da Vinci X system consists of the surgeon console, the patient-side robotic arms and articulated surgical instruments. The surgeon sits at the console and controls every instrument movement in real time with their own hands.
The articulated instruments offer a greater range of motion than the human hand, while the system provides high-resolution 3D magnified imaging that helps identify anatomical structures in detail.
Access to the surgical field is achieved through small incisions, in line with the principles of minimally invasive surgery.
Surgeon console with full real-time control
Articulated instruments with a wide range of motion
Magnified 3D imaging of the surgical field
Minimally invasive access through small incisions
Urological Applications of Robotic Surgery
Robotic Radical Prostatectomy
Minimally invasive surgical treatment of localised prostate cancer.
Learn moreRobotic Partial Nephrectomy
Removal of a kidney tumour while preserving healthy kidney tissue, where feasible.
Learn moreRobotic Radical Nephrectomy
Removal of the kidney when anatomy, tumour size or location do not allow preservation of kidney tissue.
Learn moreRobotic Pyeloplasty
Reconstructive treatment of ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) obstruction.
Learn moreRobotic vs Laparoscopic Surgery
Both techniques are minimally invasive, with important differences in how instruments are controlled.
Robotic Surgery in Urology
- Instrument control through a surgeon console
- Articulated instruments with a wide range of motion
- 3D imaging provided by the robotic system
3D Laparoscopic Surgery
- Direct handling of straight laparoscopic instruments by the surgeon
- More limited range of motion compared to articulated instruments
- 3D imaging available on 3D laparoscopic systems
The most appropriate approach depends on the procedure, anatomy, surgeon experience and patient characteristics — not on technology alone.
Modern Technologies in Urological Surgery
Συχνές Ερωτήσεις
What is robotic surgery?
It is a form of minimally invasive surgery in which the surgeon controls articulated instruments through a dedicated console, with magnified 3D imaging of the surgical field.
Does the robot operate on its own?
No. Every instrument movement is controlled in real time by the surgeon at the console.
What is the Da Vinci X?
It is a 4th-generation robotic surgical system installed at LEFKOS STAVROS – The Athens Clinic, used for selected urological procedures.
Which urological surgeries are performed robotically?
Examples include robotic radical prostatectomy, partial and radical nephrectomy, and pyeloplasty, depending on each patient's indication.
What is the difference between robotic and laparoscopic surgery?
In robotic surgery the surgeon controls articulated instruments through a console, while in laparoscopic surgery straight instruments are handled directly. Both are minimally invasive.
Is robotic surgery better for all patients?
Not necessarily. The most suitable technique is individualised based on the procedure, anatomy and patient characteristics.
Is it used for prostate cancer?
Yes, robotic radical prostatectomy is one of the treatment options for localised prostate cancer, depending on the case.
Is it used for kidney tumours?
Yes, robotic partial or radical nephrectomy can be applied to selected kidney tumours.
Who decides which technique will be used?
The choice is made by the surgeon after assessing the condition, anatomy and patient characteristics.
Sources
- Official documentation of LEFKOS STAVROS – The Athens Clinic on the Da Vinci X robotic system.
- Official manufacturer documentation (Intuitive) for the da Vinci system.