Advanced robotic training
Dr. Neal Patel completed the Felix and Mildred Yip Fellowship in Advanced Robotics and Laparoscopy at the USC Institute of Urology, where he performed hundreds of benign and cancer robotic procedures on the da Vinci Xi and Si platforms. He specializes in advanced techniques that can shorten recovery while staying focused on cancer control.
Procedures
- Robotic radical prostatectomy for localized prostate cancer, with nerve-sparing when appropriate.
- Robotic partial nephrectomy, removing a kidney tumor while preserving the healthy kidney. This includes zero-ischemia techniques that limit or avoid clamping the kidney's main blood supply.
- Robotic radical nephrectomy and nephroureterectomy.
- Robotic radical cystectomy with intracorporeal urinary diversion, where the new urinary diversion is built entirely inside the body through small incisions.
- Retroperitoneal robotic surgery, reaching the kidney from the back without entering the abdominal cavity, useful for posterior tumors and for patients with prior abdominal surgery.
What robotic surgery offers
Compared with open surgery, robotic surgery generally uses smaller incisions and may involve less blood loss, less pain and a shorter hospital stay. It is still major surgery, and the right approach depends on the tumor, your anatomy and your overall health. Dr. Neal Patel discusses all appropriate options, including surveillance, ablation, radiation or systemic therapy, alongside surgery.
Coordinated care
Surgery is performed at Northside Hospital facilities and Advanced Urology's surgery centers. Your referring physician receives a summary letter after every visit, and you receive a visit summary in your language.
Second opinions
Patients with a new diagnosis are welcome to request a second opinion. Call 678-344-8900.
Preparing for your visit with Dr. Neal Patel
Bring a list of your current medications and supplements, any prior urine, blood or PSA results, and the reports (or discs) from recent imaging. If you can, arrive with a comfortably full bladder, because a urine sample and a bladder scan are often part of the first visit. Write down your main questions so nothing is missed. A family member is welcome to join you. If you prefer Spanish or Korean, let the office know when you book so language support is ready.
Your chart is reviewed before you arrive, and insurance requirements for likely imaging or procedures are checked up front so approvals can move sooner. Before you leave, your orders, prescriptions and follow-up plan are reviewed with you, and you receive education materials tailored to your condition.
At the end of the visit you will receive a written summary in your preferred language that explains what was found, what was ordered and what happens next. Your primary care physician or referring doctor receives a clear update letter with findings, plan and next steps, so everyone caring for you stays informed. Appointments are available at the Johns Creek, Cumming, Decatur and Braselton offices; call 678-344-8900.
Reviewed by Dr. Neal Patel, MD, board-certified urologist. This page is general information and not a substitute for medical advice.