In October, Dr Damian Peterson, a fourth-year resident at the Department of Urology at University Hospital No. 2 in Bydgoszcz, completed a two-week international training at the renowned Department of Urology and Andrology at Careggi University Hospital in Florence.
The Italian center is led by Professor Andrea Minervini, a world-class specialist in oncological urology and robotic surgery. Professor Minervini is one of the most experienced surgeons in Europe, with over 3,000 robotic procedures performed, including more than 100 live surgeries presented at international scientific congresses. He serves on the boards of the ERUS Robotic Urology Section and the ESU School of Urology of the European Association of Urology (EAU), and is the author of over 400 scientific publications and more than 500 abstracts presented at national and international conferences.
The purpose of the training was to deepen knowledge of modern surgical techniques, with a particular focus on robotic procedures used in the treatment of urological diseases, such as radical prostatectomy, partial and radical nephrectomy, pyeloplasty, and radical cystectomy with neobladder reconstruction.
During the training program, which included observation of daily surgeries on da Vinci X and the new da Vinci SP (Single Port) robotic platforms, Dr Peterson had the opportunity to familiarize himself with the workflow of one of the most advanced robotic urology centers in Italy.
A special highlight of the training was the direct collaboration with Professor Minervini, who meticulously explained each stage of the procedures, sharing extensive experience, technical nuances, and practical insights derived from years of clinical and scientific practice.
Dr Peterson also had the opportunity to observe surgeries performed by prominent members of Professor Minervini’s team, including Dr Gianni Vittori, Dr Riccardo Fantechi, Dr Andrea Mari, and Dr Andrea Cocci, as well as collaborate with young researchers Dr Antonio Grosso and Dr Luca Lambertini. Working together and discussing clinical cases allowed for the exchange of experiences, the exploration of different surgical approaches, and a deeper understanding of the latest trends in robotic surgery.
Additionally, during the training, Dr Peterson participated in procedures in endoscopy, andrology, reconstructive surgery, and focal HIFU therapy. These experiences allowed him to become familiar with modern minimally invasive treatment methods, including treatment of prostate cancer, erectile dysfunction, and urethral strictures, which at the Florence center form an integral part of a comprehensive approach to urological patients.
The visit to Florence was not only a valuable practical experience but also an inspiring opportunity for knowledge exchange and best practices between international teams. We are confident that the skills and insights gained will contribute to the further development of our clinic in robotic surgery, supporting the implementation of the most advanced and precise urological treatment methods in Poland.
Dr Damian Peterson returned from the training with new knowledge, inspiration, and a passion for further refining minimally invasive techniques, which are already successfully applied in clinical practice at our center.
