Robotic-assisted total mesorectal excision with the aid of a single-port device

Surg Innov. 2013 Aug;20(4):NP3-5. doi: 10.1177/1553350611434643. Epub 2012 Feb 7.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION AND INDICATIONS: Robotic surgery has numerous advantages in rectal cancer surgery. Studies have reported the advantages associated with single-port approaches, such as eliminating the need for additional incisions, as well as the difficulties inherent in this technique. The authors present a hybrid technique that they performed using a robotic total mesorectal excision with the aid of a single port-device. Materials and methods. The authors performed the technique on 2 patients using a single-port device through an umbilical incision and 3 accessory ports for the robotic arms. There was no need to place ports for the assistant's equipment or for an assistant incision.

Results and complications: The operation time was 177.5 minutes, and there were no intraoperative or postoperative complications. Both patients were discharged 7 days after the operation.

Conclusions: This technical variation is an additional step forward for oncological surgery with minimal damage to the abdominal wall.

Keywords: rectal cancer; robotic surgery; single port.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Digestive System Surgical Procedures / instrumentation
  • Digestive System Surgical Procedures / methods
  • Humans
  • Laparoscopy / instrumentation
  • Laparoscopy / methods*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Rectal Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Robotics / instrumentation*
  • Umbilicus / surgery