Robotic Abdominal Surgery Research Articles

Risk factors for PPCs in laparoscopic non–robotic vs. laparoscopic robotic abdominal surgery (LapRas): rationale and protocol for a patient–level analysis of LAS VEGAS and AVATaR

IntroductionPostoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) vary amongst different surgical techniques. We aim to compare the incidence of PPCs after laparoscopic non–robotic versus laparoscopic robotic abdominal surgery. Methods and analysisLapRas (Risk Factors for PPCs in Laparoscopic Non–robotic vs Laparoscopic robotic abdominal surgery) incorporates harmonized data from 2 observational studies on abdominal surgery patients and PPCs: ‘Local ASsessment of VEntilatory management during General Anaesthesia for Surgery’ (LAS VEGAS), and ‘Assessment of Ventilation during general AnesThesia for Robotic surgery' (AVATaR). The primary endpoint is the occurrence of one or more PPCs in the first five postoperative days. Secondary endpoints include the occurrence of each individual PPC, hospital length of stay and in–hospital mortality. Logistic regression models will be used to identify risk factors for PPCs in laparoscopic non–robotic versus laparoscopic robotic abdominal surgery. We will investigate whether differences in the occurrence of PPCs between the two groups are driven by differences in duration of anesthesia and/or the intensity of mechanical ventilation. Ethics and disseminationThis analysis will address a clinically relevant research question comparing laparoscopic and robotic assisted surgery. No additional ethical committee approval is required for this metanalysis. Data will be shared with the scientific community by abstracts and original articles submitted to peer-reviewed journals. RegistrationThe registration of this post-hoc analysis is pending; individual studies that were merged into the used database were registered at clinicaltrials.gov: LAS VEGAS with identifier NCT01601223, AVATaR with identifier NCT02989415.

Doppler-Derived Renal Functional Reserve in the Prediction of Postoperative Acute Kidney Injury in Patients Undergoing Robotic Surgery.

Postoperative acute kidney injury (PO-AKI) is a frequent complication after surgery. Various tools have been proposed to identify patients at high risk for AKI, including preoperative serum creatinine or estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), urinary cell cycle arrest, and tubular damage biomarkers; however, none of these can appropriately assess AKI risk before surgery. Renal functional reserve (RFR) screened by the Doppler-derived intraparenchymal renal resistive index variation (IRRIV) test has been proposed to identify patients at risk for AKI before a kidney insult. IRRIV test has been developed in healthy individuals and previously investigated in cardiac surgery patients. This study aims to evaluate the value of the IRRIV test in identifying PO-AKI among patients undergoing robotic abdominal surgery in the Trendelenburg position for pelvic oncological disease. We performed a prospective, double-blinded, observational study. Preoperative baseline renal function and RFR were assessed in 53 patients with baseline eGFR >60 mL/min/1.73 m2, undergoing robotic surgery in the Trendelenburg position for pelvic oncological disease. The capability of Doppler-derived RFR in predicting PO-AKI was investigated with the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC-AUC). Approximately 15.1% of patients developed AKI within the first 3 postoperative days. Thirty-one (58.5%) patients had a physiologic delta-RRI (ie, ≥0.05), while 22 (41.5%) patients did not. The ROC-AUC for PO-AKI was 0.85 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.74-0.97; P = .007) for serum creatinine, 0.84 (95% CI, 0.71-0.96; P = .006) for eGFR, and 0.84 (95% CI, 0.78-0.91; P = .017) for delta-RRI. When combined with eGFR, the ROC-AUC for delta-RRI was 0.95 (95% CI, 0.9-1). Our findings show that the preoperative assessment of Doppler-derived RFR combined with baseline renal function improves the capability of identifying patients at high risk for PO-AKI with eGFR >60 mL/min/1.73 m2 after robotic abdominal surgery in Trendelenburg position for pelvic oncological disease.

РОБОТ-АССИСТИРОВАННЫЕ ОПЕРАЦИИ В ДЕТСКОЙ АБДОМИНАЛЬНОЙ ХИРУРГИИ: ПЕРВОНАЧАЛЬНЫЙ ОПЫТ

Purpose of this research was to apply the possibilities of robot-assisted surgery technology in children with abdominal pathology in terms of assessing feasibility and evaluating postoperative results. Material and methods used: the scientific study was carried out at the Irkutsk Oblast Regional Children's Clinical Hospital (Irkutsk, Russia) in Dec. 2022-June 2023. During this period, 11 robot-assisted procedures were performed on the abdominal organs. The study was conducted within the framework of the Clinical Trials Program for Medical Products approved by the Federal Service for Surveillance in Healthcare of the Russian Federation. All surgical procedures were implemented according to the same principles and patterns that the Authors have gathered previously with the Versius Surgical Robot. In all cases, the three robotic ports were used: a single 12-mm trocar for optics (intervened at the umbilicus) and two 5-mm trocars for robotic arms. Additionally, another 5-mm laparoport was installed for the assistant surgeon to work during the robotic intervention. During the study, patients' perioperative parameters related to data charts, surgical details and both early and long-term outcomes were recorded. Results: the total number of patients involved in robotic interventions on the abdominal organs was 11, 4 (36,4%) boys/7 (63,6%) girls. The mean age at the time of surgery was 10,9±5.1 y/o (Me 12.0 [7.0; 15.0] y/o), mean weight at the time of surgery was 39.7±18.0 kg (Me 43.0 [24.0; 53.8] kg). The distribution of reasons for surgical interventions was as follows: 3 (27,3%) patients with Nissen fundoplication, 3 (27,3%) patients with cholecystectomy, 2 (18,2%) patients with Heller esophagomyotomy with Dor fundoplication, 2 (18,2%) patients with splenic cyst fenestration and a single (9%) patient with enucleation of ovarian teratoma. The mean duration was 100±52.4 min (Me 70.0 [65.0; 122.5] min). None of the operations were accompanied by any intraoperative complications. There were also no conversions into laparoscopic and/or open surgeries. In the long-term period after the operations, the number of significant complications in the form of recurrence of symptoms of the initial disease did not increase, patients showed no digestive problems during the entire follow-up period as well. Conclusion: Russia’s initial experience with robotic-assisted abdominal surgery confirmed that robotics can be safely and effectively used in children. Fundoplication, esophagomyotomy and cholecystectomy are by far the most commonly performed basic interventions in pediatric surgery. Obviously, this is the first stage in the development of robotic abdominal surgery in children hence it would further involve a more complex procedure.

Subcutaneous emphysema associated with laparoscopic or robotic abdominal surgery: a retrospective single-center study.

Subcutaneous emphysema (SCE) is a common complication in laparoscopic surgery. However, its precise incidence and impact on the clinical course are partially known. In this study, the incidence and risk factors of SCE were retrospectively analyzed. Patients who underwent laparoscopic/robotic abdominal surgery (e.g., gastrointestinal, hepatobiliary, gynecologic, and urologic surgery) between October 2019 and September 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. The presence of SCE was confirmed by either conclusive findings obtained through chest/abdominal X-ray examination immediately after operation, or intraoperative palpation conducted by nurses. X-ray examination was performed in the operation room before extubation. A total of 2503 patients treated with laparoscopic/robotic abdominal surgery between October 2019 and September 2022 were identified and all of them were included in the analysis. SCE was confirmed in 23.1% of the patients (i.e., 577/2503). SCE was identified by X-ray examination in 97.6% of the patients. Extubation failure was observed in 10 patients; however, pneumothorax was not observed. Female sex (odds ratio [OR]: 2.09; 95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 1.69-2.57), age ≥ 80years (OR 1.63; 95%CI 1.19-2.22), body mass index < 20 (OR 1.32; 95%CI 1.06-1.65), operation time > 360min (OR 1.97; 95%CI 1.53-2.54), robotic surgery (OR 2.54; 95%CI 1.91-3.38), maximum intraabdominal pressure with CO2 > 15mmHg (OR 1.79; 95%CI 1.02-3.16), and endo-tidal CO2 > 50mmHg (OR 1.32; 95%CI 1.08-1.62)were identified as independent factors of SCE. Regarding the extubation failure due to SCE, age (OR 5.84; 95%CI 1.27-26.8) and maximum intraabdominal pressure with CO2 (OR 21.7; 95%CI 4.76-99.3) were identified as risk factors. Although the presence of SCE is associated with a low risk of severe complications, monitoring of the perioperative intraabdominal pressure is essential for performing safe laparoscopic/robotic surgery, particularly in elderly patients.

RAWS4all project: validation of a new silicone model for robotic TAPP inguinal hernia repair.

Trans-abdominal pre-peritoneal (TAPP) hernia repair is a complex procedure that presents several challenges. Even though, due to the high prevalence of inguinal hernia, TAPP technique is increasing in frequency and robotic Abdominal Wall Surgery (rAWS) is emerging as a valuable tool in this regard. Although inguinal TAPP procedure principles have been published and simulation is needed, the availability of validated models remains scarce. A new low-cost model was developed to simulate inguinal rTAPP repair. For validity assessment, a new TAPP-specific fidelity questionnaire and assessment scale were developed to compare the performance of novices and experts in the simulated procedure. The models used were assessed at 60min for execution and quality score. Twenty-five residents and specialists from all over the country participated in this study. Execution, quality, and global performance was higher in the seniors group compared to juniors (8.91 vs 6.36, p = 0.02; 8.09 vs 5.14, p < .001; and 17 vs. 11,5, p < .001, respectively). Overall fidelity was assessed as being very high [4.41 (3.5-5.0), α = .918] as well as face [4.31 (3.0-5.0), α = .867] and content validity [4.44 (3.2-5.0), α = .803]. Participants strongly agreed that the model is adequate to be used with the DaVinci® Robot [4.52 (3.5-5.0), α = .758]. This study shows face, content, and construct validity of the model for inguinal TAPP simulation, including for robotic surgery. Therefore, the model can be a valuable tool for learning, understanding, practicing, and mastering the TAPP technique prior to participating in the operating room.

Laparoscopic versus robotic abdominal and pelvic surgery: a systematic review of randomised controlled trials.

The current evidence is inconclusive on whether robotic or laparoscopic surgery is the optimal platform for minimally invasive surgery. Existing comparisons techniques focus on short-term outcomes only, while potentially being confounded by a lack of standardisation in robotic procedures. There is a pertinent need for an up-to-date comparison between minimally invasive surgical techniques. We aimed to systematically review randomised controlled trials comparing robotic and laparoscopic techniques in major surgery. Embase, Medline and Cochrane Library were searched from their inception to 13th September 2022. Included studies were randomised controlled trials comparing robotic and laparoscopic techniques in abdominal and pelvic surgery. The study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Short-term, health-related quality of life, and long-term, outcomes were analysed. Forty-five studies, across thirteen procedures, involving 7364 patients were included. All of the studies reported non-significant differences in mortality between robotic and laparoscopic surgery. In majority of studies, there was no significant difference in complication rate (n = 31/35, 85.6%), length of postoperative stay (n = 27/32, 84.4%), and conversion rate (n = 15/18, 83.3%). Laparoscopic surgery was associated with shorter operative time (n = 16/31, 51.6%) and lower total cost (n = 11/13, 84.6%). Twenty three studies reported on quality of life outcomes; majority (n = 14/23, 60.9%) found no significant differences. There were no significant differences between robotic surgery and laparoscopic surgery with regards to mortality and morbidity outcomes in the majority of studies. Robotic surgery was frequently associated with longer operative times and higher overall cost. Selected studies found potential benefits in post-operative recovery time, and patient-reported outcomes; however, these were not consistent across procedures and trials, with most studies being underpowered to detect differences in secondary outcomes. Future research should focus on assessing quality of life, and long-term outcomes to further elucidate where the robotic platform could lead to patient benefits, as the technology evolves.

OC-017 Robotic abdominal wall program surgery: Initial experience of our first 101 cases

Abstract Aim Minimally invasive surgery in abdominal wall had spread exponentially in the last decade, specially with the robotic surgery appearance. In our hospital, the Abdominal Wall Unit started the robotic program in 2019. The experience of our team in laparoscopic surgery allowed us to introduce the robotic surgery in complex abdominal wall pathologies. The aim of this study is to describe our experience of the progressive evolution that we had in our first 101 cases Material and Methods Patients with ventral/incisional hernias with medium and high complexity with no loss of domain, parastomal and inguinal hernias. The surgeries were performed by X or Xi DaVinci robotic platform. Result 101 patients (115 surgeries) were considered in our study. All of them underwent robotic abdominal wall surgery. Women were 46 (45,5%) and men 55 (54,5%). The mean IBM was 34 (±3,7). The main hernia was in the midline: 53 (52,5%), the more frequent techniques were eTEP 32 (31,7%), RoboTAR (intrabdominal transversus abdominis muscle release) 19 (18,8%), bilateral inguinal TAPP 16 (15,9%) and Pauli 15 (14,9%). Also, we performed 11(10,9%) patients with our protocol with botulinum toxin called Robotox decreasing the TAR procedure. The RoboTAR had the most operating time mean: 315 min (260–350) while eTEP had 225 min (180–269). 4 (3,9%) patients had a recurrence with a follow-up of 26 months (3–37). Conclusion The implementation of a robotic program in an abdominal wall surgery unit is possible but it is necessary to standarize a training program to improve progressively the skills.

Evaluation of the Versius Robotic System for Infant Surgery-A Study in Piglets of Less than 10 kg Body Weight.

We were able to demonstrate the feasibility of a new robotic system (Versius, CMR Surgical, Cambridge, UK) for procedures in small inanimate cavities. The aim of this consecutive study was to test the Versius® system for its feasibility, performance, and safety of robotic abdominal and thoracic surgery in piglets simulating infants with a body weight lower than 10 kg. A total of 24 procedures (from explorative laparoscopy to thoracoscopic esophageal repair) were performed in 4 piglets with a mean age of 12 days and a mean body weight of 6.4 (7-7.5) kg. Additional urological procedures were performed after euthanasia of the piglet. The Versius® robotic system was used with 5 mm wristed instruments and a 10 mm 3D 0° or 30° camera. The setup consisted of the master console and three to four separate arms. The performance of the procedure, the size, position, and the distance between the ports, the external and internal collisions, and complications of the procedures were recorded and analyzed. We were able to perform all surgical procedures as planned. We encountered neither surgical nor robot-associated complications in the live model. Whereas all abdominal procedures could be performed successfully under general anesthesia, one piglet was euthanized early before the thoracic interventions, likely due to pulmonary inflammatory response. Technical limitations were based on the size of the camera (10 mm) being too large and the minimal insertion depth of the instruments for calibration of the fulcrum point. Robotic surgery on newborns and infants appears technically feasible with the Versius® system. Software adjustments for fulcrum point calibration need to be implemented by the manufacturer as a result of our study. To further evaluate the Versius® system, prospective trials are needed, comparing it to open and laparoscopic surgery as well as to other robotic systems.

Fragility of statistically significant findings from randomized trials in comparing laparoscopic versus robotic abdominopelvic surgeries.

Utility of robotic over laparoscopic approach has been an area of debate across all surgical specialties over the past decade. The fragility index (FI) is a metric that evaluates the frailty of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) findings by altering the status of patients from an event to non-event until significance is lost. This study aims to evaluate the robustness of RCTs comparing laparoscopic and robotic abdominopelvic surgeries through the FI. A search was conducted in MEDLINE and EMBASE for RCTs with dichotomous outcomes comparing laparoscopic and robot-assisted surgery in general surgery, gynecology, and urology. The FI and reverse fragility Index (RFI) metrics were used to assess the strength of findings reported by RCTs, and bivariate correlation was conducted to analyze relationships between FI and trial characteristics. A total of 21 RCTs were included, with a median sample size of 89 participants (Interquartile range [IQR] 62-126). The median FI was 2 (IQR 0-15) and median RFI 5.5 (IQR 4-8.5). The median FI was 3 (IQR 1-15) for general surgery (n = 7), 2 (0.5-3.5) for gynecology (n = 4), and 0 (IQR 0-8.5) for urology RCTs (n = 4). Correlation was found between increasing FI and decreasing p-value, but not sample size, number of outcome events, journal impact factor, loss to follow-up, or risk of bias. RCTs comparing laparoscopic and robotic abdominal surgery did not prove to be very robust. While possible advantages of robotic surgery may be emphasized, it remains novel and requires further concrete RCT data.

Description of the Current Da Vinci® Training Pathway for Robotic Abdominal Wall Surgery by the European Hernia Society.

Background: Robot assisted laparoscopic abdominal wall surgery (RAWS) has seen a rapid adoption in recent years. The safe introduction of the robot platform in the treatment of abdominal wall hernias is important to safeguard the patient from harm during the learning curve. The scope of this paper is to describe the current European training curriculum in RAWS. Methods and Analysis: The pathway to competence in RAWS will depend on the robot platform, experience in other abdominal procedures (novice to expert) and experience in the abdominal wall repair techniques. An overview of the learning curve effect in the initial case series of several early adopters in RAWS was reviewed. In European centres, current training for surgeons wanting to adopt RAWS is managed by the specific technology-based training organized by the company providing the robot. It consists of four phases where phases I and II are preclinical, while phases III and IV focus on the introduction of the robotic platform into surgical practice. Conclusion: On behalf of the Robotic Surgery Task Force of the European Hernia Society (EHS) we believe that the EHS should play an important role in the clinical phases III and IV training. Courses organized in collaboration with the robot provider on relevant surgical anatomy of the abdominal wall and procedural steps in complex abdominal wall reconstruction like transversus abdominis release are essential. Whereas the robot provider should be responsible for the preclinical phases I and II to gain familiarity in the specific robot platform.

Comparison of arterial to end-tidal carbon dioxide gradient P (a-ET)CO2 in volume versus pressure controlled ventilation in patients undergoing robotic abdominal surgery in the Trendelenburg position. A randomised controlled study.

Background and Aims:Robotic surgery is increasingly prevalent as an advancement in care. Steep head-down positions in pelvic surgery can increase the ventilation-perfusion mismatch and increase ventilatory requirements to offset carbon dioxide (CO2) increases consequent to pneumoperitoneum. The primary objective was to assess the impact of two ventilatory strategies, volume versus pressure-controlled ventilation on the arterial to end-tidal carbon dioxide gradient P (a-ET)CO2 in patients undergoing robotic surgery in the Trendelenburg position. The effects on alveolar to arterial oxygen gradient P (A-a)O2, peak airway pressure (Paw), dynamic compliance (Cdyn) and haemodynamics were also assessed.Methods:Fifty-one patients, 18-75 y, American Society of Anesthesiologists I-III undergoing robotic surgery in Trendelenburg position were randomised to volume-controlled ventilation (Group VCV) or pressure-controlled ventilation (Group PCV). The P (a-ET)CO2 was measured at baseline T0, 10 min after Trendelenburg position T1, 2 h of surgery T2, 4 h T3 and at Te, 10 min after deflation. The P (A-a) O2, Paw, Cdyn, heart rate and blood pressure were also measured at the same time.Results:The P (a-ET)CO2 at T1, T2, T3 and at Te was lower in Group PCV versus Group VCV. The Paw was lower at T1, T2, and T3 and Cdyn higher at T3 and Te in Group PCV at comparable minute ventilation. Haemodynamics and P (A-a)O2 were comparable between the groups.Conclusion:Pressure-controlled ventilation reduces P (a-ET)CO2 gradient, Paw and improves Cdyn but does not affect P (A-a) O2 or haemodynamics in comparison to volume-controlled ventilation in robotic surgeries in the Trendelenburg position.

RoCS: Robotic Curriculum for young Surgeons

Robotic-assisted procedures gain increasing acceptance for daily surgical routine. However, structured training programs are designed for surgeons with high expertise. Hence, a comprehensive training curriculum was established to ensure a basic competence in robotic abdominal surgery for young surgeons during their residency. The aim of the current work is to propose a feasible and effective training concept. The development process of this training curriculum is based on a comprehensive literature review which led to the concept of “robotic curriculum for young surgeons” (RoCS). It was implemented in the daily routine of a German university hospital starting in 2020. The robotic assessment questionnaire (RAQ) was used for electronic data collection. After the initial phase adjustments, it led to an improvement of the initial version of the curriculum. RoCS is a multimodal training program containing basic training through assistance at the operation table during robotic-assisted operations and basic console training. Key elements are the robotic team time-out (rTTO), perioperative process standardization including feasible personnel scheduling and useful procedure clustering into organ systems, procedural steps and procedural step complexity. Evaluation of standardized communication, performance assessment, patient factors and individual overall workload using NASA Task Load Index is realizable. Flexibility and adaptability to internal organization processes of surgical departments are the main advantages of the concept. RoCS is a strong training tool to meet the specific needs of young surgeons and evaluate their learning success of robotic procedural training. Furthermore, comparison within the different robotic systems should be considered. Further studies are needed to validate a multicenter concept design.

Robotic Abdominal Surgery and COVID-19: A Systematic Review of Published Literature and Peer-Reviewed Guidelines during the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic.

Background: Significant concern emerged at the beginning of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic regarding the safety and practicality of robotic-assisted surgery (RAS). We aimed to review reported surgical practice and peer-reviewed published review recommendations and guidelines relating to RAS during the pandemic. Methods: A systematic review was performed in keeping with PRISMA guidelines. This study was registered on Open Science Framework. Databases were searched using the following search terms: ‘robotic surgery’, ‘robotics’, ‘COVID-19’, and ‘SARS-CoV-2’. Firstly, articles describing any outcome from or reference to robotic surgery during the COVID-19/SARS-CoV-2 pandemic were considered for inclusion. Guidelines or review articles that outlined recommendations were included if published in a peer-reviewed journal and incorporating direct reference to RAS practice during the pandemic. The ROBINS-I (Risk of Bias in Non-Randomised Studies of Intervention) tool was used to assess the quality of surgical practice articles and guidelines and recommendation publications were assessed using the AGREE-II reporting tool. Publication trends, median time from submission to acceptance were reported along with clinical outcomes and practice recommendations. Results: Twenty-nine articles were included: 15 reporting RAS practice and 14 comprising peer-reviewed guidelines or review recommendations related to RAS during the pandemic, with multiple specialities (i.e., urology, colorectal, digestive surgery, and general minimally invasive surgery) covered. Included articles were published April 2020—December 2021, and the median interval from first submission to acceptance was 92 days. All surgical practice studies scored ‘low’ or ‘moderate’ risk of bias on the ROBINS-I assessment. All guidelines and recommendations scored ‘moderately well’ on the AGREE-II assessment; however, all underperformed in the domain of public and patient involvement. Overall, there were no increases in perioperative complication rates or mortalities in patients who underwent RAS compared to that expected in non-COVID practice. RAS was deemed safe, with recommendations for mitigation of risk of viral transmission. Conclusions: Continuation of RAS was feasible and safe during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic where resources permitted. Post-pandemic reflections upon published robotic data and publication patterns allows us to better prepare for future events and to enhance urgent guideline design processes.

Holographic reconstruction technology used for intraoperative real-time navigation in robot-assisted partial nephrectomy in patients with renal tumors: a single center study.

BackgroundTo explore the efficacy and advantages of real-time navigation using holographic reconstruction (HR) technology combined with da VinciTM robotic system for partial nephrectomy (PN) in patients with renal tumor.MethodsThe clinical data of 41 patients with totally intrarenal tumors receiving robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) from April 2018 to October 2020 in our department were collected and retrospectively analyzed. All operations were performed by the same surgeon. HR technology and three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction techniques were applied for real-time navigation to resect tumors using the da VinciTM robotic system. The relevant clinical parameters and surgical outcomes of the patients were recorded and analyzed.ResultsHR technology allowed accurate evaluation of tumors, renal hilus vessels, and surrounding organs during the operation. With real-time navigation HR, all cases were performed by RAPN. The mean operative time was 115.3±20.3 (range, 70–153) minutes, and the warm ischemia time (WIT) was 18.7±3.9 (range, 13–28) minutes. The estimated blood loss (EBL) was 98.8±18.7 (range, 60–141) mL. Negative surgical margins were reported in all cases. Patients with absence of grade ≤1 Clavien-Dindo complications. Compared with the clinical outcomes of standard RAPN, as reported in the literature, HR-assisted technology reduced the mean operative time, the WIT, and the EBL in patients undergoing RAPN. Therefore, combining HR with robotic abdominal surgery can enhance the efficiency of locating blood vessels and allow for more accurate resection of tumors.ConclusionsAs a novel and promising computer digital technology, HR can significantly improve the success of RAPN operations. This retrospective study demonstrated that HR-assisted operations resulted in shorter operation times and less perioperative complications and were thus safer and more effective in patients with renal tumors compared with RAPN not used HR.

Totally robotic intracorporeal Monti-Yang continent ileovesicostomy in patient with previous robotic surgery–Technique description

We present a video case report of a pediatric patient with previous robotic abdominal surgery who underwent robotic assisted Monti-Yang continent ileovesicostomy. This 10-year-old female had a history of spina bifida, with previous myelomeningocele repair and ventriculoperitoneal shunt as an infant and robotic-assisted Malone procedure and artificial urethral sphincter placed 4 years ago. After undergoing bilateral hip surgery, she presented with difficult urethral catheterization due to reduced leg mobility. A Monti-Yang ileovesicostomy procedure was planned. A 5mm laparoscopic port placed through the umbilicus followed by four additional DaVinci XI working ports. Twenty centimeters proximal the ileocecal valve, a 3cm segment of ileum was dissected, then transected, detubularized, and retubularized around a 10 Fr catheter. This conduit was reimplanted to the anterior bladder wall. The other edge was fixed to the umbilicus. A 10 Fr Foley catheter was left clamped in the conduit, and a urethral Foley was left to gravity. Total operative time was 3h 56min. The patient did well post-operatively. She was discharged home on POD 6. Starting three weeks after surgery, the patient began catheterizing through the umbilical stoma. At 3 month follow-up, the patient catheterizes through her stoma every 3h without leakage between catheterizations.

Robotic infant surgery with 3\xa0mm instruments: a study in piglets of less than 10\xa0kg body weight

No data exist concerning the appication of a new robotic system with 3 mm instruments (Senhance®, Transenterix) in infants and small children. Therefore, the aim of this study was to test the system for its feasibility, performance and safety of robotic pediatric abdominal and thoracic surgery in piglets simulating infants with a body weight lower than 10 kg. 34 procedures (from explorative laparoscopy to thoracoscopic esophageal repair) were performed in 12 piglets with a median age of 23 (interquartile range: 12–28) days and a median body weight of 6.9 (6.1–7.3) kg. The Senhance® robotic system was used with 3 mm instruments, a 10 mm 3D 0° or 30° videoscope and advanced energy devices, the setup consisted of the master console and three separate arms. The amount, size, and position of the applied ports, their distance as well as the distance between the three operator arms of the robot, external and internal collisions, and complications of the procedures were recorded and analyzed. We were able to perform all planned surgical procedures with 3 mm robotic instruments in piglets with a median body weight of less than 7 kg. We encountered two non-robot associated complications (bleeding from the inferior caval and hepatic vein) which led to termination of the live procedures. Technical limitations were the reaction time and speed of robotic camera movement with eye tracking, the excessive bending of the 3 mm instruments and intermittent need of re-calibration of the fulcrum point. Robotic newborn and infant surgery appears technically feasible with the Senhance® system. Software adjustments for camera movement and sensitivity of the fulcrum point calibration algorithm to adjust for the increased compliance of the abdominal wall of infants, therefore reducing the bending of the instruments, need to be implemented by the manufacturer as a result of our study. To further evaluate the Senhance® system, prospective trials comparing it to open, laparoscopic and other robotic systems are needed.

Full robotic multivisceral resections: the Modena experience and literature review

The robotic platform is becoming a multidisciplinary tool, versatile, and suitable for multiple procedures. Combined multivisceral resections may represent an alternative to sequential procedures with a potential favorable impact on postoperative morbidity, and on the timing of administration of adjuvant chemotherapy. We herein present our initial experience with full robotic multivisceral resections, and a review of the literature available. Between January 2018 and April 2020, 11 patients underwent multivisceral full robotic abdominal surgery: 4 patients presented with two synchronous tumors, 4 with primary cancer associated with a benign condition and 3 cases involved deep infiltrating endometriosis. Surgical teams enrolled were: General Surgery, Urology and Gynecology. A systematic bibliographic research up to April 2020 was conducted in PubMed. 4 colorectal resections combined with partial or radical nephrectomy were performed, as well as 2 right colectomies in combination with right adrenalectomy and gastric banding removal, 2 radical prostatectomies with Nissen Fundoplication and abdominal wall hernia repair, and 3 resections of deep pelvic endometriosis with colorectal involvement. Mean total operative time was 367min. No intraoperative complication or conversion to open was registered. Overall postoperative complication rate was 18.2%. 26 papers were included in the review (10 case series and 16 case reports) with a total of 156 combined multivisceral robotic procedures recorded. Robotic combined multivisceral resections proved to be safe and feasible when performed in high volume centers by expert surgeons. The heterogeneity of reports does not allow for a standardization of the procedure. Further studies and accumulation of experience are needed.

A prospective randomized pilot study: The impact of the depth of neuromuscular blockade and modes of mechanical ventilation on surgical conditions during laparoscopic and robotic surgery

Introduction. There is controversy in the literature as to whether deep neuromuscular blockade (NMB) improves the surgical conditions during laparoscopic surgery. We hypothesized that moderate NMB can be used with Pressure support ventilation Pro (PSVpro) during laparoscopic and robotic abdominal surgery without compromising the surgical conditions. Objectives. The aim of the study is to assess the effect of moderate NMB with PSVpro ventilation on surgical conditions during laparoscopic and robotic surgery. Materials and methods. The study included 36 patients scheduled for elective laparoscopic or robotic abdominal surgery under general anesthesia. All patients were randomized into two groups. Group 1 — moderate NMB and pressure support ventilation — PSVpro (N = 17 people), group 2 — intensive NMB and pressure control ventilation–volume guaranteed — PCV-VG (N = 19 people). Surgical conditions were evaluated using a the 5-point Leiden-Surgical Rating Scale (L-SRS) every 15 minutes. Additionally, the duration of anesthesia and surgery, the consumption of muscle relaxants and the level of intra-abdominal pressure were recorded. Results. The median of 515 intermediate assessments in both groups was 5 [5; 5] points (minimum 3; maximum 5), no statistically significant differences (p = 0.28). The medians of the final assessments were also 5 [5; 5] points in group 1 (minimum 4; maximum 5) and 5 [5; 5] points in group 2 (minimum 4; maximum 5), no statistically significant differences between groups (p = 0.32). Final scores corresponding to acceptable, poor and extremely poor surgical conditions were not recorded. Conclusions. The use of moderate NMB with PSVpro mode did not worsen surgical conditions during laparoscopy, but may reduce the consumption of muscle relaxants.

Comparison of analgesic requirements in robot-assisted versus conventional laparoscopic abdominal surgeries.

Background and Aims:Robot-assisted surgery is advantageous in the precision of tissue handling and shorter postoperative recovery. We compared postoperative analgesic requirements in laparoscopic versus robot-assisted surgery in the first 24 h as our primary objective. The secondary outcomes were extubation on table, time to ambulation, and length of ICU stay.Material and Methods:After approval from the ethics committee 48 patients undergoing either laparoscopic (group L [n = 24]) or robotic abdominal surgery (group R [n = 24]) were evaluated for analgesic requirements postoperative targeting a numerical rating scale ≤3 in a prospective comparative study. Postoperative patients were allotted to a three-tier pain management, level 1 comprising paracetamol 1 g intravenously every 8 h, level 2, 1.5 mg/kg tramadol every 8 h, and level 3 fentanyl 0.5 μg/kg. The total analgesic consumption in the first 24 h was calculated for each group. Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-square test and Mann-Whitney U test.Results:Age, weight, and types of surgery were comparable between the groups. The intraoperative opioid use was comparable between both groups but the duration of surgery was longer in group R. Postoperative analgesic requirements were significantly less in group R (P = 0.024) and the length of ICU stay was shorter (P < 0.05). The time to ambulation was significantly shorter in group R patients (P < 0.001).Conclusion:Analgesic requirements were significantly less in robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery in the first 24 h. The time to ambulation and length of ICU stay were shorter in the robot-assisted group in comparison to the laparoscopic group.

Flow disruptions in robotic-assisted abdominal sacrocolpopexy: does robotic surgery introduce unforeseen challenges for gynecologic surgeons?

The purpose of this study was to apply a human factors research approach to identify flow disruptions, deviations in the optimal course of care, in robotic abdominal sacrocolpopexy procedures with the ultimate goal of developing system interventions to improve the safety and efficiency of robotic surgery. Twenty-four robotic abdominal sacrocolpopexy procedures were observed for flow disruptions. Surgeries were divided into four phases: (1) patient arrival and induction of anesthesia; (2) port placement and robot docking; (3) console time; (4) undocking of robot, incision closure, and patient exiting the OR. Flow disruptions were observed at a rate of 10.9 ± 5.1 per hour. The most frequently observed flow disruptions involved training issues (2.8 ± 2.4 flow disruptions per hour), equipment (2.2 ± 1.6 flow disruptions per hour), and poor coordination (2.0 ± 1.3 flow disruptions per hour). The rate of flow disruptions was highest in phase 2 (19.2 ± 14.4 flow disruptions per hour). Cases with more experienced surgeons involved shorter console times by 1.5h (95% CI: 0.1, 3.0, p = 0.033) and 1.8 fewer (95% CI: 1.2, 2.6, p = 0.001) flow disruptions per hour. Surgeries were 1h shorter on average (95% CI: 0.1, 1.9, p = 0.034) in cases in which the patient was > 65years old. Da Vinci S console times were 0.8h longer (95% CI: 0.01, 1.5, p = 0.047) than Si. Flow disruptions in robotic abdominal sacrocolpopexy surgery occur about every 6min. Flow disruption rates are highest during the most complex portions of the surgery. More experienced surgeons have lower flow disruption rates and operate more quickly.