Robotic Pyeloplasty in Birmingham

Robotic pyeloplasty is the surgical correction of a pelvi-ureteric junction (PUJ) obstruction, a condition where urine cannot drain freely from the kidney into the ureter. Mr Syed Ali Shahzad, Consultant Urological and Robotic Surgeon, performs robotic pyeloplasty at private hospitals across Birmingham, offering an experienced minimally invasive approach with excellent long-term results.

What Is PUJ Obstruction?

The pelvi-ureteric junction (PUJ) is the point where the renal pelvis (the collecting system of the kidney) meets the ureter. An obstruction at this point prevents urine from draining normally, causing the kidney to become distended (hydronephrosis). This can lead to pain, recurrent infections and, if untreated, progressive loss of kidney function.

PUJ obstruction may be congenital (present from birth, often not diagnosed until adulthood) or acquired due to a crossing blood vessel, scarring or external compression.

Symptoms

Intermittent or persistent loin pain, often worse after drinking large volumes of fluid
Nausea and vomiting during pain episodes
Recurrent urinary tract infections
Blood in the urine
An incidentally found dilated kidney on imaging

The Procedure

Robotic pyeloplasty (Anderson-Hynes dismembered pyeloplasty) is the gold standard surgical treatment. It involves removing the narrow or obstructed segment of the PUJ and creating a wide, funnel-shaped anastomosis between the renal pelvis and ureter to ensure free drainage.

Mr Shahzad performs this using the da Vinci robotic system through several small (0.5 to 1.5cm) incisions, providing exceptional precision for the delicate suturing required. The operation takes approximately 2 to 3 hours under general anaesthetic. A ureteric stent is placed at the time of surgery and removed in outpatients after 4 to 6 weeks.

Results

Robotic pyeloplasty has a success rate of over 95% and provides long-term relief of obstruction with preservation or improvement of kidney function in most patients.

Recovery

Hospital stay is typically 1 to 2 nights. Return to normal activities is usually achieved within 2 to 4 weeks.

Book a Robotic Pyeloplasty Consultation in Birmingham

Mr Shahzad is recognised by BUPA, AXA, AVIVA, Vitality, Cigna and WPA and welcomes self-pay patients. No GP referral is required. Book an appointment or contact us.

Need urgent help?

If you are experiencing severe pain, heavy bleeding, inability to pass urine, fever with urinary symptoms or symptoms requiring urgent attention, seek urgent medical help through NHS 111, your GP, A&E or emergency services depending on severity.

Request a private appointment

Robotic Pyeloplasty in Birmingham

Robotic pyeloplasty may be considered for selected patients with kidney drainage obstruction such as PUJ obstruction. Mr Syed Ali Shahzad provides consultant-led private urology care for patients across Birmingham, Worcestershire and the West Midlands.

Assessment by a consultant urological and robotic surgeon.

Clear discussion of suitability, alternatives, benefits and risks.

Private appointments arranged through Yasmin Khan, Mr Shahzad’s secretary.

Page reviewed on 2026-06-24. Medical decisions require individual specialist assessment.

Common questions

Can I book robotic pyeloplasty privately in Birmingham?

Yes. Private appointments with Mr Syed Ali Shahzad can be requested through Yasmin Khan for assessment and discussion of robotic pyeloplasty suitability.

Do I need a GP referral?

Self-pay patients do not need a GP referral. Insured patients should check their policy and obtain authorisation where required.

Where are appointments available?

Appointments are available across Birmingham, Worcestershire and the West Midlands, with location availability confirmed at booking.

Robotic Pyeloplasty