At Western Urology, we are proud to stand at the forefront of innovation in minimally invasive surgery. One of the most exciting developments in robotic technology in recent years is the da Vinci Single-Port (SP) robotic platform — a next-generation system that allows surgeons to perform complex procedures through a single, small incision.

What is the Robotic SP Platform?

Unlike conventional multi-port robotic systems, which require three to five separate incisions, the SP system uses just one small entry point. Through this single incision, multiple fully articulating robotic instruments and a high-definition 3D camera are deployed, giving the surgeon exceptional dexterity and precision in confined spaces.

This technology is revolutionising the way we perform urological surgery.

Urological Procedures with the SP Robot

The SP platform has been designed with urology in mind and is approved for a broad range of procedures, including:

Radical prostatectomy (removal of the prostate for cancer)
Partial and radical nephrectomy (removal of part or all of a kidney for cancer)
Pyeloplasty (reconstruction for ureteropelvic junction obstruction)
Ureteric reimplantation and reconstruction
Simple prostatectomy (for benign prostate enlargement in very large glands)

As the technology evolves, its applications are expanding, making complex surgery less invasive and recovery smoother.

Accessing New Spaces: Retroperitoneal and Beyond

One of the major advantages of the SP robot is the ability to work through novel access routes.

Retroperitoneal access: Traditionally, kidney and prostate surgeries are performed through the transperitoneal (through the abdominal cavity) route. This often involves bowel mobilisation, which can cause postoperative pain and slower recovery. With the SP platform, we can operate directly in the retroperitoneal space, avoiding the abdominal cavity altogether. This can result in less pain, fewer complications, and faster recovery.
Transvesical access: The SP robot also makes it possible to approach the prostate through the bladder (transvesical route). This innovative approach is particularly promising for simple prostatectomy (for very large benign prostates) and even radical prostatectomy in selected patients. The transvesical approach may reduce trauma to surrounding tissues and further shorten recovery times.

Why Does This Matter for Patients?

Fewer incisions, less pain: One incision instead of many means reduced pain, faster mobility, and improved cosmetic outcomes.
Faster recovery: By avoiding the abdominal cavity (retroperitoneal or transvesical routes), we can minimise bowel-related side effects and shorten hospital stays.
Precision and safety: The SP robot delivers the same world-class 3D vision and instrument dexterity that have already transformed robotic surgery worldwide.

Leading Centres and My Training at Cleveland Clinic

The Cleveland Clinic (CCF) in the United States has been one of the leading centres globally in the development and application of the robotic SP platform. Their pioneering work has shaped much of the early adoption and clinical pathways for SP surgery.

I was fortunate to train at the Cleveland Clinic, where I was introduced to the SP robotic platform and gained first-hand experience in its novel applications. That exposure has been invaluable in shaping my own practice — enabling me to bring the very latest surgical innovations to my patients in Australia.

Innovation at Western Urology

Now, with the SP robotic platform arriving at Epworth and becoming available in Melbourne from November 2025, I am excited to offer this next-generation technology to selected patients. At Western Urology, we have long championed minimally invasive and robotic techniques, and the introduction of SP continues our tradition of being at the forefront of urological innovation.

For men requiring prostate surgery, patients with kidney cancers, or those facing complex reconstructive procedures, this technology represents a new era of less invasive surgery with faster recovery and excellent outcomes.

Final Thoughts

As an experienced robotic surgeon, with training at the Cleveland Clinic and a track record of introducing advanced techniques , I am committed to ensuring that my patients have access to the best and most innovative treatments available. The Robotic SP platform is a remarkable step forward in urological surgery.

The Future of Urology Surgery: The Robotic Single-Port (SP) Platform