Higher robotic colorectal surgery volume improves outcomes

In this study we sought to assess the effect of surgeon volume on outcomes of robotic colorectal operations performed by surgeons with low or high volume across a large health system. We performed a retrospective review of colon or rectal resections performed between January 1, 2013 and January 1, 2017 within the Providence Health System Hospitals. Procedures were separated into those performed by surgeons with high volume (30 or more robotic cases per year) vs. low volume. A total of 8 high volume and 41 low volume robotic surgeons were included in the study. High volume surgeons had a significantly shorter length of hospital stay, lower conversion rate, and lower total hospital cost. There were no differences in complications or rate of readmission. Many studies have shown that outcomes improve with increased experience. These data suggest that if a surgeon maintains robotic experience there can be improvements in cost, length of stay and conversion rates.