Suture-Needle Management Device and Novel Port Configuration for Robotic Sacrocolpopexy

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Gynecology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery

Background:

• Robot-assisted sacrocolpopexy (SCP) is a standard procedure for apical pelvic organ prolapse.
• Exploring novel devices and techniques is crucial to enhance SCP safety and efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of an 8-mm trocar site for a disposable suture/needle management device (StitchKit).
• To assess robot-assisted SCP using a 4-arm configuration without an assistant port.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case series of 422 patients undergoing robot-assisted SCP from 2018-2021.
• Procedures utilized four 8-mm robotic trocars and the StitchKit device.
• Analysis focused on procedure completion, complications, and patient characteristics.

Main Results:

• The StitchKit device was successfully used in 99% of robotic cases (n=416).
• No umbilical/port site hernias, infections, or adverse events were reported.
• Mean patient age was 60 years, with 73% having stage 3 prolapse and 70% undergoing hysterectomy.

Conclusions:

• Robot-assisted SCP is safe and effective with a 4-arm configuration and StitchKit.
• This approach eliminates the need for incisions larger than 8 mm and an assistant port.
• Surgical efficiency is maintained without compromising patient outcomes.