Robotic bariatric surgery with BORNS Simphoni: First experience

To overcome the challenges in laparoscopic bariatric surgery, robotic platforms are an attractive option. One such robotic platform is the BORNS Simphoni Robotic System, which has been evaluated for clinical use in this study.

This study includes seven severely obese patients undergoing robot-assisted sleeve gastrectomy at our centre on 10 March-9 May 2023, all performed by BORNS Simphoni Robotic System. This was a pilot study after all relevant approvals and the Clinical Trials Registry-India registration. Demographic data including body mass index (BMI), comorbidities, operative time, blood loss as well as postoperative hospital stay and results were recorded and analysed.

All 7 patients completed robot-assisted laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy without laparotomy or conversion to other surgical methods. The total mean operation time was 100.6 ± 5.99 min (mean docking and console time of 12.1 ± 1.74 min and 76.7 ± 5.69 min, respectively), the mean intraoperative blood loss was 11.57 ± 1.78 ml and the mean post-operative hospital stay was 2.18 ± 0.37 days. The mean weight and BMI at the time of surgery were 118.13 ± 17.7 kg and 42.4 ± 4.9 kg/m 2 , respectively. During follow-up at 3, 6 and 12 months, the percentage of excess weight loss was 45.2% ±11.91%, 64.5% ±13.5% and 84.9% ±15.21%, respectively. The percentage of total weight loss at 3, 6 and 12 months was 17.9% ±3.87%, 25.9% ±5.75% and 34.01% ±5.36%, respectively. Significant resolution of comorbidities was noted in our series.

We found BORNS Simphoni Robotic System to be safe and feasible to use for bariatric procedures in the pilot study. The clinical outcomes are similar when compared to published data on sleeve gastrectomy.