[Robotics in oncological surgery]

Robotic surgery actually refers to mechanized, remote instrumentation that offers greater agility in terms of degrees of freedom compared to classical laparoscopic surgery. It requires a heavy and costly technical platform, although the macroeconomic cost of an intervention could be offset by indirect gains. Learning robotic surgery is reportedly easier than mastering laparoscopy. To date, there is no validated evidence demonstrating a patient benefit for robotic surgery in oncology. The available literature suffers from major methodological shortcomings. Some studies suggest a trend toward reduced blood loss. Nevertheless, the technique is positively valued by surgeons, especially younger generations, who see it as the future of their craft. This field could further benefit from the development of artificial intelligence, which will enable true robotization of surgical procedures. Only methodologically sound prospective studies will cut through the current communication fog.