Cystectomy, the removal off all or part of the bladder, is traditionally performed using an open surgical procedure during which a surgeon makes a large abdominal incision to access the bladder.
Compared to open surgery, conventional laparoscopy is a less invasive option, but the surgeon's dexterity, field of vision and control can sometimes be limited due to the surgical instruments used.
Some bladder cancer patients may be candidates for robotic-assisted surgery, which allows surgeons perform a precise operation through a few tiny incisions with enhanced vision, precision and control.
Compared to traditional open surgery, pateints who undergo robotic surgery experience less pain, less blood loss, a shorter hospital stay and quicker recovery.