Anesthetic challenges in pediatric robot-assisted surgeries.

Abstract

With the advent of minimally invasive surgeries, robot-assisted techniques have gained popularity because they overcome various shortcomings of standard laparoscopic surgeries. Despite the associated costs and limitations among the pediatric population, surgeon comfort due to the ergonomic design, in combination with enhanced three-dimensional high-fidelity imaging and tissue handling, may offer better surgical and postoperative outcomes. However, robotic surgeries require innovations with regard to patient positioning and the overall arrangement of operative equipment and personnel. Anesthesiologists should become well versed with these changes by learning the basic features of robotic surgical systems to offer appropriate anesthetic care and promote patient safety. In this original case report, we present a 3-year-old child posted for robot-assisted left heminephrectomy and excision of the lower megaureter. It provides instructive significance for anesthesia management, especially taking into account the age of the patient and associated concerns.