Computer-assisted robotic antireflux surgery

Robotic surgical systems are relatively new technical devices designed to address several of the limitations inherent to standard laparoscopy. Since the 1(st) report of a computer-assisted fundoplication in 1997, numerous authors have reported their experiences with these devices in antireflux surgery. While there are several advantages to robotic when compared to standard laparoscopic antireflux surgery, there are also some distinct drawbacks. Robotic surgical systems allow the surgeon to perform more complex maneuvers with increased precision and accuracy, and without tremor. The image is high-definition and the surgeon operates in a more ergonomic position. These systems are also costly to purchase and maintain, they are large and may limit access to the patient during surgery, they provide a narrower field of view of the operative site, and they provide the surgeon with essentially no tactile feedback. Clinical outcomes of robotic fundoplication seem to be very similar to those of standard laparoscopic fundoplication, although the operating times in many series are increased when using the robot. The role of computer-assisted fundoplication in general practice, at least at the current level of robotic technology, remains to be defined.