Robotic Surgery in Pediatric Urology Expert Care by Dr. Prabhu Karunakaran in Hyderabad
Surgery in children isn’t just a medical procedure—it’s a decision that carries immense emotional weight for families. Regarding Pediatric urology, precision, safety, and quick recovery are paramount.
Dr. Prabhu Karunakaran, a Consultant Pediatric Urologist and Robotic Surgeon based in Hyderabad, stands at the intersection of compassion and cutting-edge innovation. With extensive experience in robotic surgeries for children, Dr. Prabhu is not only one of the few surgeons in India using this technology for Pediatric cases, as this requires extensive training in pediatric robotic surgeries and Dr Prabhu is trained in robotic surgery in India and University of Chicago, USA. but also a trusted expert for some of the region’s most delicate surgical needs.
Understanding Robotic Surgery for Children A Game-Changer in Pediatric Urology
Robotic surgery is not about robots operating on your child. Instead, it’s a highly advanced surgical tool controlled by the surgeon with unmatched precision and visualization.
Here’s what sets it apart
- 3D Magnified Vision: Gives a detailed view of tiny anatomical structures
- Tremor Elimination: Filters out even the smallest unintended hand movements
- Miniature Instruments: Designed for small bodies and delicate tissues
- Minimal Invasion: Surgery through tiny incisions, reducing trauma
Dr. Prabhu uses this technology for pediatric cases like
- Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction (UPJO)
- Vesicoureteral Reflux (VUR)
- Ureteric reimplantation
- Pyeloplasty
- Bladder augmentation and reconstruction
Why is this important?
These are complex surgeries where precision matters most. With robotic assistance, the risk of damage to surrounding organs is minimized, and outcomes are significantly improved.
What Makes Robotic Surgery in Children So Effective?
Unlike adults, children are still developing, which makes surgical precision non-negotiable. Robotic surgery excels in
Aspect |
Incision Size |
Recovery Time |
Risk of Infection |
Blood Loss |
Pain & Medication |
Scarring |
Traditional Surgery |
Large |
5–10 days |
Higher |
Moderate |
More |
More visible |
Robotic Surgery |
Tiny (keyhole) |
2–3 days |
Lower |
Minimal |
Less |
Minimal to none |
Dr. Prabhu’s personal surgical outcomes have shown reduced hospital stays and better post-operative quality of life in children undergoing robotic surgery.
Are There Any Risks or Side Effects in Robotic Surgery for Kids?
Robotic surgery is highly safe, but no procedure is without risks. Possible complications may include:
- Reaction to anaesthesia
- Minor bleeding or infection
- Rare robotic system malfunctions (always backed by manual options)
- Surgeon into Trained, qualified & certified both in robotic surgery and Pediatric Urology.
Dr. Prabhu emphasizes comprehensive pre-operative planning and real-time intra-operative decision-making to further minimize risks. His approach includes:
- Detailed imaging (MRI/CT scan) review
- Clear family counselling
- Individualized surgery planning based on age, weight, and organ development
Which Is Better—Manual or Robotic Surgery in Children?
The better option depends on the type of procedure, surgeon’s expertise, and available infrastructure.
However, when robotic systems are available and performed by an expert like Dr. Prabhu Karunakaran, the advantages are difficult to ignore:
- Better ergonomics for the surgeon = more precise movements
- Less fatigue during long surgeries
- Smaller incisions for your child
- Enhanced cosmetic outcomes (important for lifelong confidence)
Dr. Prabhu’s robotic-assisted approach especially shines in redo surgeries and complex reconstructions, where open surgery would be more invasive and traumatic.
Inside the OR Live Robotic Pediatric Surgery with Dr. Prabhu
For the first time, parents and aspiring medical professionals can witness a live robotic Pediatric urological surgery.
🟢 Watch how technology, skill, and care come together in this original video footage from Dr. Prabhu’s operating room.
Meet Dr. Prabhu Karunakaran: Expert in Pediatric Robotic Surgery & Pediatric Urology , Hyderabad
- Consultant Pediatric Urologist & Robotic Surgeon
- Fellowship-trained in advanced Pediatric urology techniques
- Recognized for early adoption of robotic systems in Pediatric cases
- Hundreds of surgeries with minimal complications
- Trusted by families across South India
Frequently Asked Questions by Parents
Will my child be in pain after robotic surgery?
This is one of the biggest concerns for any parent. Robotic surgery uses very small cuts, so children usually feel less pain and recover much faster compared to open surgery. Many kids start walking, eating, and playing comfortably within a day or two.
Is robotic surgery safe for babies and toddlers?
Yes, when done by a trained pediatric robotic surgeon like Dr. Prabhu. He has performed successful robotic procedures even in children under 1 year of age. Every child is evaluated individually to ensure safety, comfort, and the best possible outcome. But when is child is too small it need exclusive training and expertise, which Dr Prabhu is an expert at.
What conditions can be treated with robotic surgery in children?
Common urological issues like ureteric obstruction (PUJ obstruction), vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), ureteral duplication, Bladder Augmentation, Mitrofanoff, and so on, some bladder issues can be treated using robotic techniques. Dr. Prabhu uses this technology to ensure minimal scarring and faster recovery.
What happens if something goes wrong during robotic surgery?
The robot doesn’t work on its own— it is a master slave combination where the robot just obeys or transfers the movement, it’s completely controlled by the surgeon. If needed, Dr. Prabhu can switch to a traditional laparoscopic surgery too. He is fully trained and experienced in both techniques, ensuring safety throughout the procedure.
Is robotic surgery available in all hospitals?
Not all hospitals have the necessary setup. Robotic surgery requires advanced systems and a trained Pediatric surgical team. Dr. Prabhu performs these surgeries in well-equipped centres in Hyderabad with full Pediatric anaesthesia support and post-op care.
Get Expert Pediatric Surgical Care
Choosing the right surgeon is as important as choosing the right treatment.
Whether it’s a second opinion, a planned surgery, or a first consultation, Dr. Prabhu Karunakaran is here to guide you with compassion and expertise.
