Paediatric robotic surgery: a narrative review

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS)
• Robotic Surgery

Background:

• Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) offers benefits like reduced pain and shorter hospital stays compared to open surgery.
• Laparoscopic surgery in children faces technical challenges due to small working spaces and rigid instruments, making open surgery common for complex procedures.
• Robotic surgical platforms aim to overcome laparoscopic limitations with enhanced visualization, ergonomics, and dexterity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current applications and role of robotic surgery in the field of pediatric surgery.
• To evaluate how robotic platforms can address the challenges of MIS in pediatric patients.
• To discuss the advantages and limitations of robotic surgery in pediatric procedures.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of current robotic surgery applications in pediatric surgery.
• Analysis of the technical advantages of robotic platforms in pediatric MIS.
• Examination of reported challenges and reservations regarding pediatric robotic surgery.

Main Results:

• Robotic surgery provides a 3D view, improved ergonomics, and greater range of motion, beneficial for pediatric MIS.
• These advantages may enable MIS for complex pediatric cases requiring intracorporeal suturing and anastomosis.
• Concerns include high costs, longer operative times, and the lack of specialized pediatric robotic equipment.

Conclusions:

• Robotic surgical platforms show promise for advancing MIS in pediatric surgery.
• Further research and development are needed to address cost and equipment limitations for broader pediatric adoption.
• Robotics may enhance the feasibility and safety of complex MIS procedures in children.