Side docking: an alternative docking method for gynecologic robotic surgery.

Area of Science:

• Robotic Surgery
• Gynecologic Surgery
• Surgical Innovation

Background:

• Traditional robotic docking in gynecologic surgery can present challenges with instrument access and potential for robotic arm collisions.
• Optimizing robotic setup is crucial for enhancing surgical efficiency and patient safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present and evaluate an alternative side-docking method for robotic gynecologic procedures.
• To assess the feasibility, safety, and benefits of this novel docking approach.

Main Methods:

• A side-docking technique where the robot is positioned at a 45° angle to the patient's lower torso.
• Alignment with the outer border of the stirrup, allowing for surgeon preference of left or right side-docking.
• Standard patient and trocar setup, with emphasis on maintaining 8-10 cm instrument port distance.

Main Results:

• The side-docking method provides significantly improved access to the vagina and perineum.
• No increased risk of robotic arm collision was observed when maintaining adequate instrument port separation.
• The technique may facilitate robotically assisted gynecologic procedures.

Conclusions:

• The proposed side-docking method is a viable alternative for robotic gynecologic surgery.
• This approach can enhance surgical ergonomics, potentially reducing assistant fatigue and risk of injury.
• Further studies may explore its broad applicability in various gynecologic procedures.