G. De Naeyer, P. Van Migem, P. Schatteman, P. Carpentier, E. Fonteyne, A. Mottrie

Introduction: During the last years, more and more urologists get convinced of the advantages of robotic assisted minimal invasive urological procedures. Due to the improved stability, the easier instrument manipulation, the elimination of tremor and motion reduction when using the da Vinci™ robotic system (Intuitive Surgical, Mountain View, CA), a microsurgical procedure may be easier to perform. We report the use of the da Vinci™ robotic system for performing the anastomosis in a patient undergoing a vasovasostomy.

Method: Case Report: A 34-year old man underwent a vasovasostomy for refertilisation. After preparing the both vasal ends on the conventional manner, a full-tickness vasovasal anastomosis was made with a Prolene 8/0 suture using the da Vinci™ robotic system instead of the microscope.

Result: No peroperative or postoperative problems were encountered. A semen analysis after 3 months showed viable spermatozoa which confirms a patent anastomosis.

Conclusion: This case report shows that robotic vasovasostomy is feasible and technically possible. We think that for less experienced microsurgeons, the anastomosis can be made with greater ease and precision, compared to conventional microscope assisted vasovasostomy. Further studies should be performed evaluating this technique.

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