Totally robotic right colectomy: a preliminary case series and an overview of the literature

Abstract

Background: Since the introduction of robotics, relatively few series have been published evaluating its role for right colectomy. The aim of this study was to report our preliminary experience with totally robotic right colectomy (TRRC).

Methods: Between 2009 and 2010 we performed three TRRCs, using a hand-sewn intracorporeal anastomosis. Data were retrospectively reviewed.

Results: Two women and one man underwent a TRRC. Mean operative time was 270 min. Mean blood loss was 30 ml. There was no conversion. Mean number of lymph nodes harvested was 18. There were no complications. Median hospital stay was 10 days. After a median follow-up of 10 months, there was no tumoural recurrence.

Conclusion: TRRC is not only safe and feasible but also oncologically effective. Although preliminary and small, this experience confirmed the results from previous series using a hand-sewn intracorporeal anastomosis. Larger series are required to draw firm conclusions concerning the possible indications for TRRC.

Keywords: cancer; colectomy; intracorporeal anastomosis; robot; technique.