Robotic radical cystectomy is a major operation used to remove the bladder, most often for invasive or high-risk bladder cancer. The surgeon uses robotic instruments through several small incisions to remove the bladder and, when appropriate, nearby lymph nodes and other surrounding structures. Because the bladder is removed, a new way for urine to leave the body must be created. With an ileal conduit, a short segment of small intestine is used to form a passage connecting the ureters to an opening, called a stoma, on the abdomen. Urine continuously drains through the stoma into a discreet external collection pouch.