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Published on: February 12, 2022
Short- and Long-Term Outcomes of Robotic Surgery for Rectal Neuroendocrine Tumor
Kentaro Saito1, Yusuke Yamaoka1, Akio Shiomi1
1Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, 38471Shizuoka Cancer Center, Nagaizumi, Japan.
Abstract:
Background. The optimal radical surgical approach for rectal neuroendocrine tumor (NET) is unknown. Methods. This study evaluated the short- and long-term outcomes of 27 patients who underwent robotic radical surgery for rectal NET between 2011 and 2019. Results. The median distance from the lower border of the tumor to the anal verge was 5.0 cm. The median tumor size was 9.5 mm. Six patients (22%) had lymph node metastasis. The incidences of postoperative complications of grade II and grade III or more according to the Clavien-Dindo classification were 11% and 0%, respectively. All patients underwent sphincter-preserving surgery, and no patients required conversion to open surgery. The median follow-up time was 48.9 months, and both the 3-year overall survival and relapse-free survival rates were 100%. Conclusions. Short- and long-term outcomes of robotic surgery for rectal NET tumor were favorable. Robotic surgery may be a useful surgical approach for rectal NET.
Insights
Robotic radical surgery for rectal neuroendocrine tumors (NET) shows promising results. This approach demonstrated favorable short- and long-term outcomes, suggesting its potential as an effective treatment option.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Oncology
- Robotic Surgery
Background:
- Optimal surgical management for rectal neuroendocrine tumors (NET) remains under investigation.
- Rectal NETs require precise surgical techniques for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the short- and long-term outcomes of robotic radical surgery for rectal NET.
- To determine the safety and efficacy of robotic surgery in treating rectal NET.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 27 patients who underwent robotic radical surgery for rectal NET from 2011 to 2019.
- Assessment of postoperative complications using the Clavien-Dindo classification.
- Evaluation of survival rates and oncological outcomes during a median follow-up of 48.9 months.
Main Results:
- All 27 patients underwent successful sphincter-preserving robotic surgery without conversion to open procedures.
- Postoperative complications were low, with 11% grade II and 0% grade III or higher.
- Excellent oncological outcomes were observed, with 100% 3-year overall survival and relapse-free survival rates.
Conclusions:
- Robotic radical surgery for rectal NET yields favorable short- and long-term outcomes.
- The technique is associated with low complication rates and excellent survival.
- Robotic surgery presents a viable and effective option for managing rectal NET.

