Robot-assisted Thoracic Surgery: Learning Curve and Cost Analysis in a German High-Volume Centre

Abstract

Robot-assisted thoracic surgery (RATS) is a rapidly evolving surgical technique in Europe. The aim of the study was to analyse the learning curve and safety during the establishment of a RATS-program at a high-volume thoracic surgery centre and to quantify the costs of the surgical procedure in Germany. Within a period of 33 months, 255 patients were prospectively enrolled in the study and all perioperative process times and complications were recorded. Mediastinal procedures were performed in 46%, anatomical lung resections in 38%, wedge resections in 7% and diaphragm plications in 6% of patients. The mean operating time was 130min and the total length of stay was 7 days. The conversion rate was 3.2% and 30-day mortality 1.2%. Mean costs for surgical consumables per intervention amounted to 2,039€; the average reimbursement was 9,568€. In summary, RATS can be safely established, performed and trained with low complication rates and acceptable costs for consumables.