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Safety and learning curve in robotic colorectal surgery
Adam Abodeely1, Jorge A Lagares-Garcia2, Vincent Duron3
1Rhode Island Colorectal Clinic, LLC, 334 East Avenue, Pawtucket, RI, 02860, USA.
Journal of Robotic Surgery
|September 18, 2016
Summary
Robotic colorectal surgery offers a safe approach for both benign and malignant conditions, with outcomes comparable to traditional methods. This study shows promising results in minimally invasive procedures.
Area of Science:
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
- Colorectal Surgery
- Robotic Surgery
Background:
- Robotic surgery is emerging for minimally invasive colorectal procedures.
- Limited availability of robotic colorectal units in the US due to cost and access.
- Experience with robotic colorectal surgery for benign and malignant diseases is described.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and short-term outcomes of robotic colorectal surgery.
- To analyze data from a dedicated colorectal practice performing robotic procedures since 2008.
- To compare robotic surgery outcomes with traditional and laparoscopic approaches.
Main Methods:
- Prospective collection of data in a robotic colorectal surgery database.
- Analysis of demographic, intraoperative, postoperative, and pathology data.
- Inclusion of 48 robotic procedures for various colorectal conditions.
Main Results:
- 48 procedures performed for diverticulitis, malignancy, rectal prolapse, and fistulas.
- Average operating room time was 162 minutes; no conversions to open surgery.
- Low anastomotic leak rate (2.1%) and no mortalities.
- For malignancies (13 cases), adequate oncologic resection with excellent margins and lymph node sampling.
Conclusions:
- Robotic colorectal surgery is safe for benign and malignant diseases.
- Short-term outcomes are comparable to traditional and laparoscopic surgery.
- Oncologic resections demonstrate adequate margins and lymph node retrieval.
