Robotic-Assisted Cholecystectomy: Experience from Pakistan

Area of Science:

• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Surgical Technology
• Gastrointestinal Surgery

Background:

• Robotic-assisted surgery is an evolving field.
• The Versius system offers a novel platform for minimally invasive procedures.
• Initial experiences with new robotic systems require safety and efficacy evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the safety and console time of robotic-assisted cholecystectomy.
• To evaluate the initial outcomes of the Versius system in Pakistan.
• To identify factors influencing console time in robotic cholecystectomy.

Main Methods:

• Observational study design.
• Prospective data collection from May 2022 to March 2024.
• Review of 156 robotic-assisted cholecystectomies, recording perioperative variables and 90-day outcomes.

Main Results:

• 156 robotic-assisted cholecystectomies were performed, predominantly in female patients.
• Mean console time was 63.04 ± 33.14 minutes.
• No 90-day morbidity, readmissions, or mortality were observed; one bleeding complication occurred.

Conclusions:

• Robotic-assisted cholecystectomy with the Versius system is safe in selected cases.
• Short-term outcomes are comparable to laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
• Console time is influenced by patient gender and gallbladder characteristics.