Robotic Colorectal Surgery

Abstract

Surgical innovation is constant, most recently is the introduction of robotic surgery. While the incorporation of minimally invasive surgery in the field of colorectal surgery is generally rapid, robotic surgery is yet to gain momentum in the field. Laparoscopic colorectal surgery is now widely practiced, yet it has its own limitations, specifically in rectal surgery and operating in the pelvis. The advent of robotic surgery comes with hopes to address these limitations at no cost of compromising oncological outcomes. There are abundant reports in the literature on early experiences with the robotic technique with early results demonstrating safety and feasibility of the technique. However, as with any new technology, it comes with its own limitations. Benefits, limitations, outcomes, and future directions of this new technology as it applies to colorectal surgery are discussed.