Robotic surgery

What it is

Robotic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a robotic system to assist surgeons in performing complex operations, such as cancer removals. The robotic system consists of a console where the surgeon sits and controls the robotic arms, which are inserted through small incisions in the patient's body.

What research shows

Studies suggest that robotic surgery can be as effective as traditional open surgery for certain types of cancer, such as endometrial and lung cancer. For example, a prospective study found that robotic retroperitoneal para-aortic lymphadenectomy in patients with intermediate-to high-risk endometrial cancer resulted in good oncological outcomes. Another study found that robotic-assisted thoracic surgery for lung cancer had similar clinical outcomes and costs compared to video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery.

Current status

Robotic surgery is a viable option for certain types of cancer, particularly those that require complex operations. However, more research is needed to fully understand its benefits and limitations, and it may not be suitable for all patients.

Key studies

• PMID 41859856

  Robotic retroperitoneal para-aortic lymphadenectomy in patients with intermediate-to high-risk endometrial cancer resulted in good oncological outcomes.

  PubMed ↗
• PMID 41856046

  Robotic-assisted thoracic surgery for lung cancer had similar clinical outcomes and costs compared to video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery.

  PubMed ↗
• PMID 41851411

  A prospective study compared postoperative, oncological, and patient-reported outcomes of robot-assisted radical prostatectomy performed with three CE-marked robotic platforms.

  PubMed ↗
• PMID 41850893

  Early postoperative urinary incontinence after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy frequently impairs work performance.

  PubMed ↗
• PMID 41844495

  Robotic-assisted versus traditional laparoscopy for the treatment of stage I endometrial cancer had similar long-term survival outcomes.

  PubMed ↗