Robotic cystectomy

Need to know

• What happens during surgery? icon plus

  Your consultant surgeon will start by making several small cuts (keyholes) in an area of skin near your bladder. They'll then use the da Vinci® robot to find and remove your bladder.
  
  Your consultant will be in the same room as you but they'll operate the robot from a console. This lets them perform more precise movements than traditional surgery and can make for a quicker procedure.
  
  During the surgery, your consultant will create a new way for you to pass urine. This could be in the form of urinary diversion (a urostomy stoma) or a neobladder replacement. You'll be under general anaesthetic for the surgery.

• How to prepare icon plus

  You'll be asked to arrive at the hospital either on the day or morning before your robotic cystectomy. You won't be able to eat six hours before the procedure but you can drink clear, still water up to three hours before it.
  
  Your consultant will explain what else to expect prior to the surgery. They will also explain what will happen during the surgery and outline any possible risks and side effects. If you're having a urostomy stoma fitted (a urine collection bag), a nurse specialist will explain how this works and how to care for it.

• After surgery icon plus

  After the operation, you'll be transferred to our intensive care for a recovery period of 24-48 hours. Once stable, you'll be taken to the main hospital.

  Your consultant or nurse will let you know when you can leave the hospital and if you should arrange for someone to take you home.