Robot surgery ; Endocrine surgical procedures ; Gastrointestinal surgery ; Colorectal surgery
Abstract
Background: Application of robotic surgery in the field of general surgery has been increasing. This paper is an
overview of the current uses and future perspectives of robotic surgery in four major divisions—endocrine, upper
gastrointestinal, hepato-biliary-pancreatic (HBP), and colorectal surgery.
Current Concepts: In endocrine surgery, cosmetic advantage is the highest priority when selecting a surgical
approach for thyroidectomy. Currently, the transaxillary route is the most common approach. The introduction of
the single-port system could maximize the advantages of this technique. In upper gastrointestinal surgery, the use of
robots has the advantage of better retrieval of lymph nodes, less bleeding, earlier discharge, and less complications
than the laparoscopic approach. However, a more prospective comparative trial is required to confirm those findings.
In the HBP field, the indications of robotic surgery have expanded, starting with cholecystectomy to more challenging
procedures, such as donor hepatectomy and pancreaticoduodenectomy. Meticulous dissection using robots could
provide benefits to patients. In colorectal surgery, robotic surgery is an excellent technical tool for minimally invasive
surgeries for rectal cancers, especially in male patients with narrow, deep pelvises. However, further studies are
required to confirm the impact of robotic surgery on rectal cancers.
Discussion and Conclusion: Robots are used to provide optimal surgical outcomes. Investigating new technologies
and innovative surgical procedures is the highly important for a surgeon in the era of minimally invasive surgery.