Emergence of robotic assisted surgery in gynecologic oncology: American perspective

Abstract

Objectives To discuss the emergence of robotic surgery in gynecologic oncology and describe the growth of robotic surgery in a university medical center and a community based practice. Methods In addition to the historical evolution of the robotic assisted surgery medicine, a survey of robotic cases was performed on two robotic programs since the inception of the programs. A review of the current literature on the use of the da Vinci robot in gynecologic oncology was also performed. Results The robotic surgery programs at UNC Hospital and Florida Hospital are growing steadily since the inception of the programs in 2005 and 2006, respectively. Since 2005 there have also been numerous publications detailing the effectiveness, safety, and efficiency of the robot. Conclusions Robotic surgery is gaining acceptance and is rapidly growing as evidenced by an increased number of publications on the topic; these publications demonstrate the safety, efficacy, and improved outcomes compared to open surgery and conventional laparoscopy.