Early Experience With Robotic Kidney Transplantation With Left-Sided Graft Implantation: Technical Considerations and Short-Term Outcomes.

BACKGROUND

Most reported experience with robotic kidney transplant (RKT) has been limited to right-sided graft implantation, with left-sided implantation considered technically challenging.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed consecutive left-sided RKTs at two transplant centres (01/2023-02/2026). A standardized operative technique with an accompanying surgical video is presented, and perioperative and postoperative outcomes are analysed.

RESULTS

Seventeen patients underwent left-sided RKT. Fifteen were for retransplants, and two were for contraindications to right-sided implantation. Median warm ischaemia time was 37 min, operative time 229 min, and length of stay 4 days. No conversions to open surgery, intraoperative complications, or major postoperative complications occurred. Delayed graft function developed in five patients. At a median follow-up of 12.1 months, all patients were alive with functioning grafts.

CONCLUSIONS

RKT with left-sided graft implantation is technically feasible and safe in experienced robotic transplant centres and was associated with favourable short-term outcomes.