SP10.7 Robotic versus laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer treatment – a comparison of outcomes in the quest for superiority

Abstract

Abstract Background This research analysed short-term outcome results of robotic and laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer patients. The objective was to determine the advantages of using robotics in minimal invasive surgery and to investigate if there is a significant variation in outcomes based on the surgical method utilised. Methods The study conducted a retrospective analysis of all patients who received robotic and laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer treatment between 2020 and 2022. The data collected included demographics, as well as information on pre-, intra-, and post-operative periods. Results This study evaluated 120 surgeries for colorectal cancer patients, 83 were robotic and 37 were laparoscopic. The rate of stoma formation was higher in laparoscopic procedures (48.6%) compared to robotic surgeries (30.1%). Robotic surgery had a slightly longer average length of operation (279.6 minutes) compared to laparoscopic procedures (254.8 minutes), but the average length of hospital stays for patients who underwent robotic surgery was approximately 5 days shorter. Furthermore, the rate of readmission within 30 days was 12% higher for patients who underwent laparoscopic procedures compared to those who underwent robotic surgery. No patients in the robotic group required conversion to open surgery whereas one laparoscopic procedure necessitated conversion to open. Globally, the mortality rate was 0%. Conclusion This study suggests that robotic surgery can be a safe and effective option for approach to surgical colorectal cancer treatment. Robotic surgery offers shorter hospital stays compared to laparoscopic surgery with fewer complications and readmissions. Overall, these findings suggest that robotic surgery may be a superior approach to minimally invasive surgery for colorectal cancer patients.