An unprecedented intervention carried out in an international framework
On September 13, Professor Jean-Christophe Bernhard, expert in urological surgery at Bordeaux University Hospital, and Doctor Gaëlle Margue performed a nephrectomy with caval thrombectomy, a complex operation in the treatment of kidney cancer. The intervention, broadcast live at the Bordeaux Convention Center during the European Robotic Urology Congress (ERUS), made it possible to share this advance with a thousand urological surgeons from around the world.
Using augmented reality technology developed in partnership with SurgAR and Fujifilm, the team was able to visualize the patient’s internal structures in real time. This device, comparable to a “surgical GPS”, superimposes a precise digital model of the organs on real images. This allowed practitioners to locate areas invaded by the tumor and perform more targeted intervention, thereby reducing the risk of complications.
Digital urology 3D: an innovative project to rethink surgery
This feat is part of the Digital Urology 3D project, launched in 2022 and financed by an envelope of 6.1 million euros as part of the France 2030 program. Coordinated by Professor Bernhard, this program brings together several partners, including the CNRS, the Grenoble University Hospital and manufacturers such as Sophia Genetics, Rescoll and Fujifilm.
The project is not limited to improving surgical procedures. It also aims to transform surgeon training and enrich the patient experience. Among the innovations developed, 3D printing of specific kidney models allows patients to better understand interventions, reducing their anxiety and promoting their involvement in the care process. According to Professor Bernhard, these technologies could soon be applied to other surgical specialties.
