Robotic single-port transumbilical total hysterectomy: a pilot study

Area of Science:

• Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery
• Robotic Surgery
• Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Single-port surgery offers cosmetic and potential recovery benefits.
• Robotic platforms enhance dexterity and visualization in minimally invasive procedures.
• Transumbilical approaches aim to further reduce surgical scarring.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of robotic single-port transumbilical total hysterectomy.
• To evaluate the utility of a novel, home-made surgical glove port system for this procedure.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of seven patients undergoing robotic single-port transumbilical total hysterectomy.
• Procedures utilized a custom glove port system through a single umbilical incision.
• Indications included benign disease, cervical carcinoma in situ, and early-stage cervical cancer.

Main Results:

• The procedure was technically feasible in selected patients.
• Median operative time was 109 minutes, with median blood loss of 100 mL.
• One case was converted to multi-port surgery due to adhesions; no post-operative complications were reported.

Conclusions:

• Robotic single-port transumbilical total hysterectomy is a viable option for select gynecological conditions.
• Robotic assistance may be particularly beneficial for gynecologic cancer patients undergoing this approach.
• Further research can optimize this technique for broader application.