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Robotic-Assisted Surgery for Colorectal Cancer Treatment in 2026: An Updated Narrative Review.
Cammarata Roberto1, La Vaccara Vincenzo1, Catamerò Alberto2
1Operative Research Unit of General Surgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, 00128 Rome, Italy.
Journal of Clinical Medicine
|May 27, 2026
Summary
Robotic colorectal surgery offers potential benefits over laparoscopy, especially for rectal cancer, with improved outcomes but higher costs. New platforms may enhance cost-effectiveness and future applications in colorectal cancer management.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Oncology
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
- Robotic Surgery
Background:
- Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major global health concern, with surgical resection as the primary curative treatment.
- Robotic-assisted surgery has advanced minimally invasive techniques for CRC, addressing laparoscopic limitations.
- This review examines the current status and evidence for robotic surgery in colorectal cancer management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of robotic platforms used in colorectal cancer surgery.
- To summarize the clinical evidence supporting robotic approaches in CRC.
- To evaluate the perioperative and oncological outcomes of robotic colorectal surgery.
Main Methods:
- A narrative literature review was performed using PubMed/MEDLINE and Scopus (2015-2026).
- Focus on randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, large observational studies, and guidelines.
- Analysis included major robotic systems (da Vinci®, Hugo™ RAS, Versius®) and emerging technologies.
Main Results:
- Robotic colorectal surgery demonstrated potential advantages in perioperative and oncological outcomes compared to laparoscopy.
- For rectal cancer, robotic approaches showed improved total mesorectal excision, lower conversion rates, and better functional outcomes.
- Robotic colectomy in colon cancer reported fewer conversions, less blood loss, and faster recovery, with similar long-term oncological results; however, operative times and costs were higher.
Conclusions:
- Robotic colorectal surgery is a safe and effective minimally invasive option, particularly for rectal cancer.
- Emerging robotic platforms and market competition may improve cost-effectiveness.
- Robotic surgery is poised to play an expanded role in future colorectal cancer treatment strategies.
