Minimally Invasive Approaches to Complex Abdominal Wall Reconstruction

Robotic platforms have made it possible to replicate open retromuscular component separation principles through small incisions in a way that was not possible on the laparoscopic platform. However, it is crucial to keep in mind that the optimal repair (not the platform) is key to achieving the best patient outcomes. Robotic abdominal wall reconstruction offers short-term advantages over open repair, including shorter hospital stay and fewer wound complications, albeit with longer operative times, higher procedural costs, and a steep learning curve. Current evidence suggests comparable hernia recurrence rates between approaches, but long-term, high-quality data remain limited.