[Robot-assisted choledochal cyst resection in a child].

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Hepatobiliary Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Surgery

Background:

• Choledochal cysts require surgical intervention, typically involving bile duct resection and reconstruction.
• Minimally invasive techniques are preferred in pediatric surgery but face challenges in narrow surgical fields.
• Robotic surgery presents a potential solution to overcome laparoscopic limitations in complex pediatric hepatobiliary procedures.

Observation:

• A 13-year-old female patient underwent robot-assisted resection of a hepaticocholedochal cyst and cholecystectomy.
• The procedure included a Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy, with a total anesthesia time of 6 hours.
• The robotic stage facilitated precise dissection and reconstruction in the confined surgical area.

Findings:

• The robot-assisted surgery was successfully completed with no intraoperative complications.
• The patient experienced an uneventful postoperative recovery, with early initiation of enteral nutrition and timely drainage removal.
• Discharge occurred on postoperative day 10, with a favorable 6-month follow-up.

Implications:

• Robot-assisted resection is a feasible and safe option for treating choledochal cysts in pediatric patients.
• This technology can enhance the capabilities of minimally invasive surgery in complex pediatric hepatobiliary cases.
• Further adoption of robotic platforms may expand treatment options and improve outcomes for children with congenital bile duct anomalies.