Robotic donor hepatectomy for living donor liver transplantation

Robotic donor hepatectomy introduces a new era in living donor liver transplantation (LDLT), combining advancements in minimally invasive surgery with superior precision and ergonomics. The beginning of LDLT in 1989 aimed to address the scarcity of deceased donor livers, a situation intensified by the technical and ethical challenges associated with this procedure. The integration of robotic systems since 2010s has broadened the scope and impact of liver transplantation, enhancing outcomes significantly for both donors and recipients. This review discusses the significant advancements in robotic surgery, the ongoing challenges such as cost and training needs, and the future toward global standardization and the integration of artificial intelligence. As this technology continues to evolve, it holds the potential to become the new global standard, ensuring safer procedures and enhanced outcomes for patients worldwide.