Robotic surgery: biomimetic three-dimensional models for the treatment of kidney cancer

A scientific collaboration project has been launched between the University of Padua – Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences (DiSCOG), the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Bordeaux and the Université de Bordeaux for the development of three-dimensional biomimetic models for robotic urological surgery.

One of the most innovative aspects of the project is the model creation process. Each biomimetic kidney is developed from CT (computed tomography) images of real patients, appropriately processed to faithfully reconstruct the anatomy of the kidney and the tumor lesion.

«In our operating rooms, a  robot-assisted partial nephrectomy procedure was recently successfully performed on a three-dimensional silicone kidney model containing a neoplasm - says Fabrizio Dal Moro, director of the Urology Clinic Azienda/University of Padua and project coordinator for DiSCOG -. This activity represents a fundamental milestone in the research project. During the simulation, data and observations were collected that will contribute to the development and refinement of future generations of models, making them increasingly realistic and useful for preoperative planning and the training of surgeons.»

The entire process takes place in full compliance with the regulations in force regarding the protection of personal data. The images used are completely anonymized and do not contain any element that would allow patients to be identified, thus guaranteeing the highest level of privacy protection.

The collaboration between DiSCOG of the University of Padua, CHU de Bordeaux and Université de Bordeaux aims to develop increasingly effective tools for surgical simulation, helping to improve the training of specialists and, in the long term, the safety and quality of care offered to patients.

The results of these activities will also be showcased during ERUS26 (European Robotic Urology Section), one of the leading international congresses dedicated to robotic urological surgery, which will take place from 9 to 11 September, where new simulation technologies represent one of the topics of greatest scientific interest.