Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Sigmoidectomy with Transrectal Specimen Extraction for Recurrent Diverticulitis

Abstract

Natural orifice specimen extraction is a surgical technique that is defined as the removal of a surgical specimen from a natural orifice with intracorporeal anastomosis. Natural orifice specimen extraction is defined by the site of extraction and has been performed via the vagina, anal canal, rectum, colon, and mouth. The primary benefit of this technique is reduced trauma at the access point due to avoidance of mini laparotomy, used to facilitate specimen extraction in conventional laparoscopy. This technique has been associated with less postoperative pain, lower analgesic requirement, faster return of bowel function, and fewer incisional hernias, as well as an improved cosmetic result. Use of the robotic platform allows for deep pelvic dissection, which is challenging to impossible with laparoscopic instruments. Here, we report a case of recurrent diverticulitis in the setting of complex abdominal surgical history managed by robotic-assisted laparoscopic sigmoidectomy with transrectal specimen extraction.