Development of the multiple scope transition method in robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy

Since robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy (R-PD) has emerged as a promising technique for treating periampullary tumors, optimal surgical views across various stages of the surgery are vital. This study aimed to describe the evolution and optimization of the multiple scope transition (MST) method using comprehensive videos and illustrations, particularly from the perspective of the patient-side assistants, to enhance the efficiency and safety of R-PD through its different phases.

We retrospectively analyzed 61 patients who underwent R-PD from April 2021 to May 2023.

The median total operation duration was 599 min (415-840 min). The median scope transition times for redocking from the left to central lower position, transition from the central lower to upper position, and port-hopping from the central to right position were 169 s (53-725 s), 55 s (26-165 s), and 120 s (41-260 s), respectively. Owing to the advancements in the scope transition procedures, these scope transition times became shorter with an increase in the number of experiences. No intraoperative complications relevant to scope transition was reported, and the incidence of significant postoperative complications greater than Grade IIIa of the Clavien-Dindo classification was 8.2%.

We reported the established role and evolution of the MST method from the standpoint of the patient-side assistants. The comfortable surgical field expansion provided by the MST method can ensure the safe and widespread application of R-PD.