What a Robotic Radical Cystectomy is with Dr. Dipen Parekh

In Episode 38 of “Bladder Cancer Matters,” host Rick Bangs talks with Dr. Dipen Parekh about robotic cystectomies. Dr. Parekh is the Chief Operating Officer at the University of Miami Health System, chairman of Urology, and the Dr. Victor Politano Endowed Chair in Clinical Urology at the Miller School of Medicine at the University of Miami. He also serves as the Director of Robotic Surgery at the University of Miami Health System.

Rick and Dr. Parekh talk about what a robotic radical cystectomy is and who might be a candidate for it. They also discuss:

• How a robotic cystectomy compares to the open and laparoscopic surgeries
• When robotic cystectomies were first used
• How the robotic technology is used
• How the technology has changed over time
• If robotic surgery is appropriate for all types of urinary diversions
• How to find a surgeon who specializes in robotic cystectomies

Dr. Parekh also talks about why most robotic cystectomies are performed in large, high-volume hospitals vs. community cancer centers

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the speakers and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network.