Robotic colonic resection - our experiences after 3 years to the elbow

Area of Science:

• Colorectal Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Robotic Surgery

Background:

• Robotic surgery is rapidly advancing globally, with increasing adoption across surgical disciplines.
• This study evaluates the initial 3-year experience with robotic-assisted colon resections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy and outcomes of robotic-assisted colon surgery.
• To analyze the initial experience and feasibility of this approach.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective, monocentric study included 105 patients undergoing robotic colon surgery between January 2021 and December 2023.
• Data collected included patient demographics, procedure types, operation time, conversion rates, and postoperative complications.

Main Results:

• Procedures included various hemicolectomies and sigmoid resections. The median operation time was 205 minutes, with a 7.62% conversion rate.
• Postoperative complications occurred in 20% of patients, with a median length of stay of 6 days. Severe complications (Clavien-Dindo ≥ grade III) were below 3%.

Conclusions:

• Robotic surgery is an effective treatment for benign and oncological colon diseases.
• It offers oncological safety, reduced surgical burden, low blood loss, and shorter hospital stays.
• The benefits outweigh initial time demands, making it a valuable surgical option.