Single-Port Robotic Surgery

Single-Port Robotic Surgery in Melbourne

Single-port robotic surgery is an advanced minimally invasive surgical approach that allows selected procedures to be performed through a single incision, rather than multiple keyhole ports. This technique represents an evolution of robotic surgery and may be appropriate for carefully selected patients and procedures.

As with all robotic techniques, patient safety, surgical precision, and appropriate case selection are paramount.

single-port prostate surgery

What is single-port(SP) robotic surgery?

Single-port robotic surgery involves performing an operation through one access point, typically using a specialised robotic platform that allows multiple instruments and a camera to be introduced through a single incision.

Compared with conventional multi-port robotic surgery, the aim of a single-port approach is to reduce the number of abdominal incisions while maintaining the benefits of robotic technology, including enhanced visualisation, precision, and control.

Single-port surgery is not suitable for all procedures and is used selectively depending on the clinical scenario.

Single-port vs. multi-port robotic surgery

How does single-port surgery differ from conventional robotic surgery?

Conventional robotic surgery usually requires several small incisions to accommodate the robotic instruments and camera. In contrast, single-port surgery uses one incision through which all instruments are introduced.

Key differences may include:

• Fewer skin incisions

• A single access site rather than multiple ports

• Use of specialised robotic instrumentation designed for single-port access

The choice between single-port and multi-port robotic surgery depends on the procedure, tumour or disease characteristics, patient anatomy, and surgical safety considerations.

Potential benefits of single-port robotic surgery

In selected patients and procedures, potential advantages may include:

• Reduced number of incisions

• Improved cosmetic outcomes

• Reduced tissue disruption

• Maintenance of robotic precision and visualisation

It is important to note that clinical outcomes and safety take precedence over incision number, and single-port surgery is only considered when it is appropriate and safe to do so.

Procedures that may be suitable for single-port robotic surgery

Single-port robotic surgery may be considered for selected urological procedures, depending on individual patient and disease factors. These may include certain reconstructive, pelvic, or upper urinary tract procedures.

Not all urological operations are suitable for a single-port approach, and in many cases, conventional multi-port robotic surgery remains the preferred option.

Each case is assessed individually, with the goal of achieving the best possible clinical outcome.

Is single-port robotic surgery right for everyone?

No. Single-port robotic surgery is not appropriate for all patients or procedures.

Factors that influence suitability include:

• The type and complexity of the condition being treated

• Prior abdominal surgery

• Patient anatomy

• Oncological safety (where cancer is involved)

• Surgeon experience with the technique

The decision to use a single-port approach is made after careful evaluation and discussion.

Why experience matters

Robotic surgery — whether single-port or multi-port — requires advanced training, experience, and judgement. The choice of surgical approach is based on achieving safe, effective, and durable outcomes rather than adopting technology for its own sake.

Single-port robotic surgery is used selectively and thoughtfully as part of a broader minimally invasive surgical practice.

Learn more

Single-port robotic surgery is one of several minimally invasive techniques available within modern urology. Further information about specific conditions and procedures can be found throughout this website.

For patient-friendly diagrams and step-by-step treatment pathways, additional resources are available through the Urology Institute patient education pages.

-Read about Single port radical prostatectomy here

-Read about single-port simple prostatectomy here

-Read about single-port partial nephrectomy here

-Read about single-port adrenal surgery here

-Read about single-port nephro-ureterectomy here

-Read about single-port ureteric surgery, including pyeloplasty here