100 robotic-assisted laparoscopic gastric bypasses at a community hospital

Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LGB) is one of the most popular surgeries for morbid obesity. Robotic use is also on the rise. Data concerning outcomes is limited, hence the need for more information. The first 100 robotic-assisted bypasses by one surgeon in one institution were studied. Data obtained from clinic notes and hospital records included all who underwent the procedure. There were 79 females and 21 males. Mean age and body mass index were 42 years and 48 kg/m2, respectively. Comorbidities included diabetes, 22 per cent; hypertension, 47 per cent, gastroesophageal reflux disease, 40 per cent; obstructive sleep apnea, 53 per cent; dyslipidemia, 17 per cent; and heart disease, 8 per cent. Prior surgeries included cesarean -section, 26 per cent; cholecystectomy, 17 per cent; hysterectomy, 3 per cent; hernia, 1 per cent, and other abdominal surgery, 27 per cent. Intraoperatively procedures included adhesiolysis, 22 per cent; cholecystectomy, 16 per cent; and herniorrhaphy, 3 per cent. Average time was 177.7 minutes. Mean stay was 1.51 days. Thirty-day mortality was 0. Emergency department re-evaluations included 13. Most were minor problems. There was one gastrojejunal leak. Early complications included leak, thrombosis, and bleeding requiring transfusion in four patients. There were four strictures. Overall follow up was greater than 90 per cent. Average weight loss was 21.2 per cent of excess body weight by Month 1, 33.8 per cent by Month 3, and 50.7 per cent by Month 6. Learning curves for time and major complications were 30 and 50 cases, respectively (P = 0.03, 0.04). Robotic use in bariatrics is possible in community hospitals. Although technologies are still in their infancy, complication rates and weight loss are comparable to nonrobotic procedures.