Robotics in general surgery: an evidence-based review

Area of Science:

• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Surgical Technology
• General Surgery

Background:

• Robotic surgery has rapidly gained prominence in general surgery.
• Its adoption is both quantitative and qualitative, signifying significant progress.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the application of robotic surgery in common general surgical procedures.
• To discuss current outcomes and future potential of robotic surgery.
• To analyze the advantages and limitations of existing robotic systems.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on robotic surgery in general surgery.
• Analysis of robotic applications in gastric, colorectal, hepato-biliary-pancreatic, and endocrine surgery.
• Evaluation of technological advancements and future instruments.

Main Results:

• Robotic surgery is applied to common procedures across multiple general surgery subspecialties.
• Current results and future possibilities are discussed for each subspecialty.
• Advantages and limitations of current systems are identified.

Conclusions:

• Robotic surgery has established a significant role in general surgery.
• Expected technological advancements will drive broader implementation and address current challenges.
• Further integration of robotic systems is anticipated in various surgical fields.