Special surgical approaches during peri-COVID-19 pandemic: Robotic and transanal minimally invasive surgery

Area of Science:

• Colorectal Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS)
• Robotic Surgery
• Transanal Surgery
• Pandemic Healthcare

Background:

• The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic necessitated adaptations in healthcare delivery, including specialized care for patients and healthcare workers.
• The pandemic highlighted unique challenges and requirements for different surgical procedures and approaches in colorectal surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a dynamic review on the application of robotic and transanal approaches for colorectal diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To synthesize current evidence and recommendations regarding the safe performance of these minimally invasive techniques in a pandemic setting.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was performed on PubMed and KSREvidence.com for studies on COVID-19 and robotic surgery, transanal mesorectal excision, or transanal surgery.
• Included were primary studies and systematic reviews. References from identified papers were also screened. European Society of Coloproctology guidelines were incorporated.

Main Results:

• Eleven studies were included from PubMed after screening 147 results. No relevant systematic reviews were identified from KSREvidence.com.
• Robotic and transanal minimally invasive surgery (MIS) approaches were found to be performable safely during the pandemic.
• Specific characteristics and considerations unique to these procedures during a pandemic were identified.

Conclusions:

• Robotic and transanal MIS are viable and safe options for colorectal disease management during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Adherence to specific procedural considerations is crucial for ensuring the safety of both patients and healthcare professionals when utilizing these techniques.