Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 1, 2025
14:45
Technical Detail for Robot Assisted Pancreaticoduodenectomy
Published on: September 28, 2019
14.8K
Ten years of paediatric robotic surgery: Lessons learned
Martin Salö1,2, Linda Bonnor1, Christina Graneli1,2
1Department of Paediatric Surgery, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden.
Summary
This study shows that paediatric robotic surgery can be successfully implemented despite low case volumes. Operative times and conversion rates have decreased over a decade, demonstrating program improvement.
Area of Science:
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
- Pediatric Surgery
- Robotic Surgery
Background:
- Implementing paediatric robotic surgery programs faces challenges such as high costs and low patient volumes.
- A comprehensive evaluation of a decade of experience is crucial for understanding success factors and obstacles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the outcomes of a paediatric robotic surgery program over ten years.
- To identify factors contributing to the success of robotic-assisted surgery in children.
- To analyze the obstacles encountered during the implementation and progression of the program.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective, single-institutional study was conducted.
- Data from all pediatric patients undergoing robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery between 2006 and 2016 were analyzed.
Main Results:
- 152 children underwent robotic surgery, with fundoplication and pyeloplasty being the most common procedures.
- Procedure times significantly decreased throughout the study period.
- The overall conversion to open surgery rate was 12% (18 patients), and 5% (7 patients) required reoperation.
Conclusions:
- Successful implementation of a paediatric robotic surgery program is achievable, even with a low surgical volume.
- Continuous improvement in operative efficiency and reduction in conversion rates were observed.
- The findings suggest that robotic surgery can be effectively integrated into pediatric surgical practice.
