Adapting the robotic platform to small operating theaters: our experience with the side-docking technique for robotic-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy

摘要

Conventionally, in robotic-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP), the robot is entered between the abducted legs of the patient. This approach may present drawbacks, including the limited access to the perineum, the inevitable abduction of the patient's legs, and the limited space available in small operating theaters. To overcome these problems, in our center, we use, from over 5 years, a side-docking technique. We herein describe our technique and a series of patients who underwent RALP using such side-docking procedure.