Stanford Performs First Robotic Kidney Transplant in Northern California

Stanford Medicine has completed its first robotic kidney transplant, marking a milestone for both the institution and the region. The procedure, performed by Dr. Thomas Pham and Dr. Stephan Busque, represents the first time this approach has been used for kidney transplantation in Northern California.

The patient recovered well and was discharged home within days of the operation.

The effort required extensive coordination across Stanford’s transplant, operating room, and perioperative care teams. The robotic approach aims to reduce postoperative discomfort and support faster recovery. “Robotic or minimally invasive kidney transplant is a cutting-edge operation that we now offer our patients,” said Dr. Pham. “It has the potential to decrease the pain you experience after surgery and lead to a faster recovery.”

The case adds a new minimally invasive option to Stanford’s transplant portfolio, with additional procedures planned as the program continues adopting robotic techniques.