Single-Incision Robotic Colectomy (SIRC) case series: initial experience at a single center

Area of Science:

• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Colorectal Surgery
• Robotic Surgery

Background:

• Laparoscopic colectomy offers advantages over open procedures.
• Single-Incision Robotic Colectomy (SIRC) is a novel technique aiming to enhance laparoscopic colectomy.
• This study presents the initial institutional experience with SIRC.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the initial experience with Single-Incision Robotic Colectomy (SIRC).
• To identify factors influencing conversion rates and postoperative complications in SIRC.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 59 patients undergoing SIRC between May 2010 and September 2013.
• Analysis of patient demographics, surgical indications, operative details, and outcomes.
• Identification of risk factors for conversion and complications.

Main Results:

• The study included 59 patients (57.6% male, 42.4% female) with a mean age of 60.3 years.
• Common indications included diverticulitis (39.0%), benign colonic mass (30.5%), and colon cancer (27.1%).
• The overall conversion rate was 13.6% (to open, multiport robotic, or single-port laparoscopic). Conversions were linked to higher complication rates (62.5% vs. 25.5%) and longer length of stay (LOS) (7.4 vs. 4.0 days). Postoperative complications occurred in 27.1% of cases, with higher BMI being a significant risk factor. Median LOS was 4 days, and median estimated blood loss was 100 ml.

Conclusions:

• Single-Incision Robotic Colectomy (SIRC) demonstrates safety and feasibility for treating both benign and malignant colonic conditions.
• Effective patient selection is paramount for enhancing surgical outcomes in SIRC.
• SIRC represents a promising advancement in minimally invasive colorectal surgery.