Robotic right middle lobectomy with a subxiphoid utility port

Area of Science:

• Thoracic Surgery
• Robotic Surgery
• Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Pulmonary adenocarcinoma requires surgical intervention, often lobectomy.
• Minimally invasive techniques are preferred for thoracic procedures.
• Robotic surgery offers enhanced visualization and instrument dexterity.

Observation:

• A 74-year-old male with Stage IIa pulmonary adenocarcinoma underwent robotic right middle lobectomy.
• A 4-arm, 5-port technique was employed, including a subxiphoid utility port.
• The subxiphoid port facilitated instrument access and specimen retrieval.

Findings:

• Robotic surgery provides superior image quality, depth perception, and instrument articulation.
• The subxiphoid utility port minimizes instrument clashing and improves stapling angles.
• Specimen extraction via the subxiphoid port may reduce postoperative pain and aid recovery.

Implications:

• The subxiphoid approach is a promising alternative for a utility port in robotic thoracic surgery.
• This technique may enhance patient outcomes and recovery following lung cancer resection.
• Further research could validate the subxiphoid approach as a standard for robotic lobectomy.