Challenges for pure uniportal robotic-assisted thoracoscopic surgery

Abstract

: In the realm of video-assisted thoracic surgery, pure uniportal robotic-assisted thoracic surgery, also known as U-RATS, is the most cutting-edge and up-to-date technology. A single incision is made through the intercostal space (ICS); the average length of the incision is between 3 and 4 centimetres, and a robotic camera, robotic dissecting equipment, and robotic staplers are utilized during the procedure. A thoracic surgeon controls the robotic system’s patient cart from a master console; the patient cart is linked to three instrumental arms and a camera arm through electrical cables and robotic fibers. The ribs are not spread apart during this procedure. The first pure uniportal robotic-assisted thoracic surgery (U-RATS) lobectomy was performed in the world by Diego Gonzalez Rivas with the Da Vinci Xi system in September 2021. Robotic-assisted thoracic surgery has better vision, more static movement, higher maneuverability, and more capability during lymph node dissection. In terms of feasibility, safety, oncological outcomes, and the postoperative recovery period, the pure uniportal approach utilizing robotic technology would be a significant improvement. The role of nurses in U-RATS begins even before the surgical procedure itself. During the preoperative phase, nurses work closely with the surgical team to prepare the patient for the procedure, including obtaining informed consent, conducting preoperative assessments, and ensuring that the patient is mentally and physically prepared for surgery. In this article, we discussed the current challenges that the uniportal RATS technique is encountering all around the world in the field of thoracic surgery.