Evolution of practice of robotic ileoanal pouches: a single-center case series in East London

Robotic ileal pouch-anal anastomosis offers improved ergonomics and dexterity, leading to increased use. This study presents our initial series, describing technique and outcomes from a nationally accredited district general hospital. Data of consecutive patients who underwent robotic restorative proctocolectomy, between January 2021 and August 2024 was presented. Da Vinci Xi system (Intuitive Surgical) was used for all cases. We usually use the ileostomy site as the extraction site and J pouch formation avoiding Pfannenstiel or lower midline incision. Eight patients with a median age of 38 years, and a mean body mass index of 20.65 kg/m² were included. Four had restorative proctectomy while one had restorative proctocolectomy. The median operative time was 407.5 minutes. One patient needed reoperation due to intraabdominal collection. The median length of stay was 6.5 days. One readmission was for adhesive obstruction. There were no mortalities. Our series demonstrates the technical feasibility and safety of our robotic technique.