Henry Ford Hospital – Vattikuti Urology Institute (USA)

The Vattikuti Urology Institute (VUI) is part of the Henry Ford Health System in Detroit, Michigan. Vattikuti Foundation+2Wikipedia+2
It was founded in 2001, funded by the Vattikuti Foundation’s philanthropic support. Vattikuti Foundation
Dr. Mani Menon, a pioneer in robotic urologic surgery, was instrumental in establishing VUI. Wikipedia+2Wikipedia+2
VUI was among the very first centers to adopt robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy as a standard of care. Wikipedia+1

VUI developed a technique called Vattikuti Institute Prostatectomy (VIP) for robotic-assisted prostate cancer surgery. Vattikuti Foundation
In early experience, they performed >350 robotic radical prostatectomies with this technique. PubMed
They also refined nerve-sparing techniques (e.g., “Veil of Aphrodite”) to optimize post-surgery erectile function. SciELO España
In 2021, VUI performed what is believed to be the first “precision prostatectomy” through the bladder using a single-port robotic system. Henry Ford Health+1
This procedure preserves part of the prostate capsule in selected patients to improve functional outcomes. Henry Ford Health

While VUI is most famous for prostate surgery, its robotic expertise spans multiple urologic areas:

Kidney / Renal Surgery: Dr. Craig G. Rogers (at VUI) is known for robotic kidney surgeries. Wikipedia
Bladder Cancer / Cystectomy: They also do robot-assisted bladder surgery. Vattikuti Foundation
Reconstructive Urology: VUI has a reconstructive urology program using robotics for urethral strictures, urinary tract reconstruction, and more. Henry Ford Health

According to Vattikuti Foundation, VUI has performed over 10,000 robotic procedures across prostate, kidney, bladder, and pediatric urology. Vattikuti Foundation
The institute draws patients nationally and internationally. Vattikuti Foundation
Dr. Mani Menon has been widely recognized: he received the Keyes Medal, a top honor in urology, partly for his work in robotic prostatectomy. Henry Ford Health

VUI is deeply involved in training urologists in robotic surgery. Their residency program emphasizes robotic techniques. Henry Ford Health
They have a surgical simulation center, with da Vinci robots available for training. Henry Ford Health
VUI’s clinical staff engage in research, publishing on techniques, outcomes, and innovation in robotic urology. ICUrology+1
The Vattikuti Foundation also supports education globally (for example, robotic surgery fellowships). BioSpectrum India+1

Dr. Mani Menon: Foundational leader, innovator in robotic prostate surgery. Wikipedia+1
Dr. Craig G. Rogers: Current leadership (nephrochirurgical / renal robotics), known for advanced robotic kidney work. Wikipedia

Pioneer in Robotic Urology: VUI is widely regarded as one of the first, and among the most experienced, in robotic prostate cancer surgery. ICUrology
Functional Outcomes-focused: Their “precision prostatectomy” and nerve-sparing techniques show a clear commitment to preserving quality of life (continence, sexual function).
High Volume + Diversity: Not just prostate cancer — they cover a broad urologic robotic surgery spectrum.
Training Hub: Their residency, simulation center, and fellowship / global training make VUI a center of excellence for robotic urology education.
Research & Innovation: Continuous refinement of surgical techniques, publication in peer-reviewed journals, and new robotic applications.

As with any high-end robotic center, resource intensity is high: both cost and infrastructure needed are significant.
Precision procedures (like the transvesical precision prostatectomy) are suitable for select patients — not every prostate cancer patient will be a candidate.
Outcomes depend heavily on surgeon skill, team experience, and patient selection.

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