Single-Docking Suprapubic Robotic Approach for Cancers of the Transverse Colon and Colonic Flexures

Area of Science:

• Colorectal Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Surgical Robotics

Background:

• Oncologic resections of the transverse colon and flexures present significant challenges in minimally invasive colorectal surgery.
• Intraoperative decision-making is often required for precise lesion localization and determining the extent of resection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a novel suprapubic single-docking robotic strategy for transverse colon and flexure resections.
• To evaluate the adaptability of this technique for various resection and reconstruction scenarios.

Main Methods:

• A suprapubic single-docking robotic approach was developed and illustrated.
• The technique was demonstrated in two cases: extended right colectomy and splenic flexure resection.
• Perioperative, technical, and pathological outcomes were analyzed in 23 consecutive patients.

Main Results:

• The suprapubic single-docking robotic strategy provides a versatile operative configuration.
• The technique is adaptable to different resection and reconstruction scenarios in transverse colon surgery.
• Analysis of 23 patients demonstrated favorable perioperative, technical, and pathological outcomes.

Conclusions:

• The described suprapubic single-docking robotic approach is a viable and versatile technique for challenging minimally invasive oncologic resections of the transverse colon and flexures.
• This strategy facilitates adaptable operative configurations for diverse resection and reconstruction needs.
• Further investigation into its application in a larger patient cohort is warranted.