Role of robot-assisted surgery in cervical cancer

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The development of robotic technology has facilitated the application of minimally invasive techniques for complex operations in gynecologic oncology.

OBJECTIVES: The objective of the study was to assess and summarize the current literature on the role of robot-assisted surgery in cervical cancer in terms of its utility and outcome.

METHODS: Literature review concerning the use of robot-assisted technology in the management of cervical cancer, including radical hysterectomy, trachelectomy, parametrectomy, pelvic and aortic lymphadenectomy, and pelvic exenteration, was performed.

RESULTS: To date, 12 articles addressing radical hysterectomy, 5 articles of radical trachelectomy, and 6 articles of surgical procedure in advanced or recurrent cervical cancer, all performed robotically, are published in the literature. The advantages of the robotic system include 3-dimensional vision, tremor reduction, motion downscaling, improved ergonomics, and greater dexterity with instrument articulation. Because of these benefits, the robotic technology seems to facilitate the surgical approach for technically challenging operations performed to treat primary, early or advanced, and recurrent cervical cancer as evidenced by the current literature.

CONCLUSIONS: Surgical management of cervical cancer may be one of the gynecologic oncology surgeries that can take full advantage of robotic assistance in a minimally invasive manner. Continued research and clinical trials are needed to further elucidate the equivalence or superiority of robot-assisted surgery to conventional methods in terms of oncological outcome and patient's quality of life.