Robotic retroperitoneal surgery in a uro‐oncology specialised centre: Translating RPLND expertise from testicular cancer to non‐genitourinary retroperitoneal tumour resection

Abstract Objective The aim of this study is to evaluate the feasibility and perioperative outcomes of robotic‐assisted resection of selected non‐genitourinary retroperitoneal tumours (RA‐RTR) performed by urologists with established experience in robotic retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RA‐RPLND) within a specialised centre. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted of all patients undergoing RA‐RPLND for testicular cancer and RA‐RTR for non‐genitourinary tumours between January 2022 and May 2025. Procedures for renal, adrenal and upper tract urothelial malignancies were excluded. All operations were performed using a four‐port da Vinci Xi® platform. Results Forty‐five patients were included: 27 RA‐RPLND and 18 RA‐RTR. RA‐RTR patients were older (median 50 vs. 36 years, p = 0.024). Preoperative tumour size was larger in RA‐RTR (56 mm vs. 20 mm, p < 0.001), although specimen dimensions were similar. Operative time was longer for RA‐RPLND (143 vs. 90 min, p = 0.045). Estimated blood loss (40 vs. 20 mL, p = 0.077) and length of stay (1 vs. 2 days, p = 0.272) were comparable. No conversions or transfusions occurred. Complication rates did not differ (14.8% vs. 5.6%, p = 0.333), and all cases achieved negative margins. Conclusion Comparable perioperative outcomes between RA‐RTR and RA‐RPLND indicate that these surgeries can be performed in specialised centres by urologists experienced in complex retroperitoneal surgery.