Automated Identification of Key Steps in Robotic-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy Using Artificial Intelligence.

PURPOSE: The widespread use of minimally invasive surgery generates vast amounts of potentially useful data in the form of surgical video. However, raw video footage is often unstructured and unlabeled, thereby limiting its use. We developed a novel computer-vision algorithm for automated identification and labeling of surgical steps during robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Surgical videos from RARP were manually annotated by a team of image annotators under the supervision of 2 urologic oncologists. Full-length surgical videos were labeled to identify all steps of surgery. These manually annotated videos were then utilized to train a computer vision algorithm to perform automated video annotation of RARP surgical video. Accuracy of automated video annotation was determined by comparing to manual human annotations as the reference standard. RESULTS: A total of 474 full-length RARP videos (median 149 minutes; IQR 81 minutes) were manually annotated with surgical steps. Of these, 292 cases served as a training dataset for algorithm development, 69 cases were used for internal validation, and 113 were used as a separate testing cohort for evaluating algorithm accuracy. Concordance between artificial intelligence‒enabled automated video analysis and manual human video annotation was 92.8%. Algorithm accuracy was highest for the vesicourethral anastomosis step (97.3%) and lowest for the final inspection and extraction step (76.8%). CONCLUSIONS: We developed a fully automated artificial intelligence tool for annotation of RARP surgical video. Automated surgical video analysis has immediate practical applications in surgeon video review, surgical training and education, quality and safety benchmarking, medical billing and documentation, and operating room logistics.

Video-Based Indocyanine Green Fluorescence Applied to Robotic Duodenum-Preserving Pancreatic Head Resection.

BACKGROUND: Duodenum-preserving pancreatic head resection (DPPHR) serves as a surgical intervention for managing benign and low-grade malignant neoplasms located in the head of the pancreas. This surgical approach enables the thorough excision of pancreatic head lesions, reducing the necessity for digestive tract reconstruction and enhancing the patient's quality of life.1 Performing a minimally invasive DPPHR is a complex surgical procedure, particularly when safeguarding the bile duct and the pancreaticoduodenal arterial arch. Robotic surgery is among the latest innovations in minimally invasive surgery and is widely used in many surgical specialties. It offers advantages such as rotatable surgical instruments, muscle tremor filters and up to 10-15 times three dimensional (3D) visual field,2 and achieves high flexibility and accuracy in surgical operations. Indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence imaging technology is also applied to provide real-time intraoperative assessment of the biliary system and blood supply, which helps maintain the biliary system's integrity.3,4 We first report the complete procedure of ICG applied to the da Vinci robotic Xi system for preserving the DPPHR. METHODS: A 48-year-old female patient was diagnosed with pancreatic duct stones, chronic pancreatitis, and pancreatogenic diabetes. Enhanced computed tomography (CT) scans revealed pancreatic head stones, pancreatic atrophy, scattered calcifications, and a dilated pancreatic duct. An attempt at endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) treatment was abandoned during hospitalization due to unsuccessful catheterization. Following informed consent from the patient and her family, a robotic DPPHR was conducted utilizing ICG fluorescence imaging technology. Approximately 60 min before the surgery, 2 mg of ICG was injected via the peripheral vein. The individual was positioned in a reclined posture with the upper part of the bed raised to an angle of 30° and a leftward tilt of 15°. Upon entering the abdominal cavity, existing adhesions were meticulously separated and the gastrocolic ligament was opened to expose the pancreas. The lower part of the pancreas was separated and the superior mesenteric vein (SMV) was identified at the inferior boundary of the pancreatic neck. The pancreas was cut upward and the pancreatic duct was severed using scissors. Dissection of the lateral wall of the portal vein-SMV in the pancreatic head segment was performed. Meticulous dissection was carried out along the pancreatic tissue, retracting the uncinate process of the pancreas in an upward and rightward direction. During the dissection, caution was exercised to protect the anterior and posterior pancreaticoduodenal arterial arch. By using ICG fluorescence imaging, the path of the common bile duct was identified and verified. Caution was exercised to avoid injuring the bile duct. After isolating the CBD, the head and uncinate process of the pancreas was entirely excised. Under the fluorescence imaging mode, the wholeness of the CBD was scrutinized for any potential seepage of the contrast agent. Ultimately, a Roux-en-Y end-to-side pancreaticojejunostomy (duct to mucosa) was executed. RESULTS: The surgery took 265 min and the estimated blood loss was about 150 mL. Without any postoperative complications, the patient was released from the hospital 13 days following the surgery. Postoperative pathology confirmed pancreatic duct stones and chronic pancreatitis. We have successfully performed four cases of robotic DPPHR using this technique, with only one patient experiencing a postoperative complication of pulmonary embolism. All patients were discharged successfully without any further complications. CONCLUSIONS: Employing ICG fluorescence imaging in a robotic DPPHR has been demonstrated to be both secure and achievable. This technique potentially provides novel therapeutic perspectives, particularly for patients with ambiguous delineation between pancreatic and biliary ductal structures.

A Proposal for Standardization of Early Outcomes Following Robot-Assisted Radical Cystectomy (RARC): RARC Tetrafecta.

BACKGROUND: Currently, there is no dedicated tool to record the early outcomes of robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC), and existing criteria for longer-term outcomes require a minimum of 3 months for assessment. However, early evaluation is essential to prevent future morbidity and mortality, especially in surgeries with a high risk of complications in the short term. We propose a comprehensive approach to report early RARC outcomes and investigate the influence of surgeon experience on these results. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed the outcomes of patients who underwent RARC for bladder cancer between April 2009 and April 2020. The cohort was divided chronologically into three groups: patients 1-60 in group 1, 61-120 in group 2, and 121-192 in group 3. Patients with yields of ≥ 16 lymph nodes (LN), negative soft tissue surgical margins, absence of transfusion, and absence of major complications at 30 days were regarded as attaining the RARC tetrafecta. RESULTS: Of the 192 included patients, 93 (48.4%) achieved RARC tetrafecta, with the proportion increasing with surgical experience from 41.7% in group 1 to 55.6% in group 3. Age [odds ratio (OR) 0.947; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.924-0.970; P = 0.021], LN yield (OR 1.432; 95% CI 1.139-1.867; P = 0.001), and greater surgical experience with RARC (> 120 patients; OR 2.740; 95% CI 1.231-6.100; P = 0.014) were significantly associated with the achievement of RARC tetrafecta. CONCLUSIONS: RARC tetrafecta could be a comprehensive method for reporting early outcomes in patients undergoing RARC, with improvements aligned with the surgeon's experience.

Portal Vein Arterialization as a Lifesaving Strategy for Hepatic Artery Injury in Robotic Hepatectomy.

BACKGROUND: Robotic vascular resection and reconstruction is a challenging procedure. Portal vein arterialization (PVA) can offer an efficient solution in those cases in which the hepatic artery cannot be reconstructed.1.Can J Surg 64:e173-e182;2.The Paul Brousse Hospital Experience. HPB (Oxford) 16:723-738;3.J Am Coll Surg 207:e1-6; PVA increases oxygen supply to the remaining part of the liver, promotes liver regeneration, and prevents liver failure.Majlesara A, Golriz M, Ramouz A, et al. Portal vein arterialization as a salvage method in advanced hepatopancreatobiliary surgery. Br J Surg. 2024;111. In this multimedia article, we describe a patient who was treated with PVA for a robotic hepatic artery injury during robotic left-liver-first anterior radical modular orthotopic right hemihepatectomy (Rob-Larmorth).5.Ann Surg Oncol 31:5636-5637 METHODS: A 52-year-old male patient was admitted with epigastric pain. Further imaging showed intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma involving the root of the right anterior branch of the portal vein. Following multidisciplinary consultation, surgical resection was recommended as the primary approach. The robotic technique was chosen in this operation, with preoperative anticipation of needing Rob-Larmorth. Unfortunately, the left hepatic artery sustained unintended damage during skeletonization of the duodenal ligaments. Anastomosis could not be performed due to severe damage to the distal end intima. We utilized PVA technology to anastomose the hepatic artery to the portal vein. Finally, Rob-Larmorth and PVA were successfully performed. RESULTS: The surgery took 490 min and the estimated blood loss was approximately 300 mL. No blood transfusion was performed. Postoperatively, the patient recovered smoothly without liver failure, although percutaneous drainage was required due to bile leakage. Pathological examination revealed moderately to poorly differentiated bile duct cell carcinoma (T2N0M0, stage II). No recurrence was observed during the 12-month follow-up. DISCUSSION: PVA can be an effective solution when no other revascularization options are available. Implementing PVA as a bridging procedure increases oxygen delivery to the remnant liver, facilitating regeneration and reducing the risk of liver failure. The development of arterial collaterals is a significant concern for individuals undergoing PVA. Complications reported after PVA include early shunt thrombosis, portal hypertension, and a notable 90-day mortality rate.1.Can J Surg 64:e173-e182 However, Majlesara and colleagues found no evidence of postoperative liver damage associated with PVA. They also reported low morbidity rates and no associated mortality for both one- and two-stage embolization of the arterioportal shunt.Majlesara A, Golriz M, Ramouz A, et al. Portal vein arterialization as a salvage method in advanced hepatopancreatobiliary surgery. Br J Surg. 2024;111. CONCLUSIONS: PVA can offer an effective solution when hepatic artery reconstruction is not feasible.

Robotic Right Hepatectomy with En Bloc Caudatectomy for Bismuth IIIa Hilar Cholangiocarcinoma: A Video Demonstration of Left-Liver-First Anterior Radical Modular Orthotopic Right Hemihepatectomy.

BACKGROUND: Minimally invasive resection for perihilar cholangiocarcinoma is a complicated and technically demanding surgical procedure. Radical surgical resection is regarded as the best treatment for hepatic hilar cholangiocarcinoma.1,2 Right hepatectomy with caudate lobe resection is necessary as the treatment for bismuth IIIa hilar cholangiocarcinoma.3 The left-liver-first anterior radical modular orthotopic right hemihepatectomy (LARMORH), which can simplify surgical steps and decrease procedural difficulty, may be a better choice for Bismuth IIIa hilar cholangiocarcinoma.4 However, there are no reports of this approach using robotic technique for this operation. We will provide a detailed introduction to this method through this video. METHODS: A 45-year-old female patient was diagnosed with a hilar cholangiocarcinoma. Following a 7-day percutaneous biliary drainage of the left intrahepatic bile duct and obtaining informed consent, we performed a robotic radical resection of the HCCA using the LARMORH approach. The patient was positioned supine with the entire bed elevated 20° and tilted 15° to the left. Trocars were placed in position (Fig. 1). After entering the abdominal cavity, it was explored for tumor metastasis. The surgery adopted a left approach, initially exploring the left hepatic artery and vein to further assess resectability. After confirming resectability, the right hepatic artery and gastroduodenal artery (GDA) were dissected. The common bile duct was dissected and transected at its distal end, ensuring R0 surgical margins. Lymph nodes were cleared from the foot side to the head side, confirming the metastasis to the lymph node group 13a, so we further cleared the group 16 and 9 lymph nodes.5 Subsequently, we approached the resection of the right half and the entire caudate lobe with the reverse thinking of left hepatic resection mode, preserving only the left branch of the portal vein and left hepatic artery, and dissecting the liver tissue along the resection plane of the left liver. After transection of the left hepatic duct, the activity space of the left liver was larger and the caudate lobe could be better exposed. The Spiegel lobe was lifted to the right in a "turn the page" fashion for in situ resection of the entire caudate lobe and the right half of the liver. Finally, a bilioenteric anastomosis was performed using the Roux-en-Y method. RESULTS: Robotic right hepatectomy with caudate lobectomy was successfully performed in 450 min, with an estimated blood loss of 200 ml. The histological grading was determined as T1aN1M0 (stage IIIB) on the basis of postoperative pathological biopsy results. The patient achieved a satisfactory postoperative recovery and was discharged on the 14th postoperative day without any major complications. Following the operation, the patient received capecitabine chemotherapy according to the Chinese Society of Clinical Oncology (CSCO) criteria. Since September 2022, our team has completed three radical resections for Bismuth IIIa HCCA using this technique. All patients achieved a satisfactory postoperative recovery without any further complications. CONCLUSIONS: Robotic left-liver-first anterior radical modular orthotopic right hemihepatectomy for Bismuth IIIa HCCA is both safe and feasible. This method may provide a new surgical approach for patients with type IIIA HCCA or liver diseases requiring right hemihepatectomy combined with total caudate lobectomy.

Centralized prostatectomy with intraoperative NeuroSAFE margin assessment improves surgical margin control.

AIMS: To investigate the surgical margin status in patients with prostate cancer who underwent robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) with intraoperative neurovascular structure-adjacent frozen-section analysis (NeuroSAFE) and evaluate differences compared to patients who underwent radical prostatectomy without NeuroSAFE. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Between September 2018 and January 2021, 962 patients underwent centralized RARP with NeuroSAFE. A secondary resection was performed in case of a positive surgical margin (PSM) on intraoperative frozen section (IFS) analysis to convert a PSM into a negative surgical margin (NSM). A retrospective cohort consisted of 835 patients who had undergone radical prostatectomy in a tertiary centre without NeuroSAFE between January 2000 and December 2017. We performed multivariable logistic regression to evaluate differences in risk of PSM between cohorts after controlling for clinicopathological variables. RESULTS: Patients operated with NeuroSAFE in the centralized clinic had 29% PSM at a definitive pathological RP examination. The median cumulative length of definitive PSM was 1.1 mm (interquartile range: 0.4-3.8). Among 275 men with PSM, 136 (49%) had a cumulative length ≤1 mm and 198 (72%) ≤3 mm. After controlling for PSA, Grade group, cribriform pattern, pT-stage, and pN-stage, patients treated in the centralized clinic with NeuroSAFE had significantly lower odds on PSM (odds ratio [OR]: 0.70, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.56-0.88; P = 0.002), PSM length >1 mm (OR: 0.14, 95% CI: 0.09-0.22; P < 0.001), and >3 mm (OR: 0.21, 95% CI: 0.14-0.30; P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: This study provides a detailed overview of surgical margin status in a centralized RP NeuroSAFE cohort. Centralization with NeuroSAFE was associated with lower PSM rates and significantly shorter PSM cumulative lengths, indicating improved control of surgical margin status.

Comparative effectiveness of robot-assisted radical cystectomy with intracorporeal urinary diversion vs open radical cystectomy for bladder cancer.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the comparative effectiveness of robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) with intracorporeal urinary diversion (ICUD) vs open radical cystectomy (ORC) for bladder cancer (BC). PATIENTS AND METHODS: We conducted a real-life monocentric study including all consecutive patients who underwent RARC with ICUD or ORC for BC at our institution from 2014 to 2023. Uni- and multivariable logistic and Cox regression analyses were used to compare perioperative, oncological and stricture outcomes between both groups by calculating odds (ORs) and hazard (HRs) ratios with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs), respectively. RESULTS: Overall, 316 patients underwent either RARC with ICUD (n = 228 [72.2%]) or ORC (n = 88 [27.8%]). The perioperative benefits of RARC vs ORC included decreased risks of major blood loss (OR 0.10, 95% CI 0.04-0.23; P < 0.001), perioperative transfusion (OR 0.30, 95% CI 0.16-0.57; P < 0.001), 90-day major complications (OR 0.56, 95% CI 0.29-0.99; P = 0.04), and prolonged initial length of hospital stay (OR 0.20, 95% CI 0.09-0.35; P < 0.001), as well as more days alive and out of the hospital within 90 days of surgery (OR 2.56, 95% CI 1.46-4.6; P < 0.01). In addition, the use of RARC vs ORC was associated with a higher lymph node (LN) count (OR 3.35, 95% CI 1.83-6.30; P < 0.001), while there was no significant difference in recurrence-free (HR 0.72, 95% CI 0.49-1.07; P = 0.1), cancer-specific (HR 0.69, 95% CI 0.43-1.10; P = 0.1), overall (HR 0.76, 95% CI 0.47-1.20; P = 0.3) and uretero-ileal stricture-free (HR 1.18, 95% CI 0.62-2.25; P = 0.6) survival between both groups after a median (interquartile range) follow-up of 42.3 (16.4-73.8) months. CONCLUSION: Our real-world study supports the effectiveness of RARC with ICUD vs ORC for BC. We generally observed better perioperative outcomes, as well as similar oncological-except for higher LN count-and uretero-ileal stricture outcomes after RARC with ICUD vs ORC.

First prospective clinical assessment of the ILY® robotic flexible ureteroscopy platform.

PURPOSE: To present the initial prospective clinical assessment of the ILY® robotic ureteroscopy manipulator platform, focusing on its safety and effectiveness. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Data gathered from 31 kidney units which underwent elective robotic flexible ureteroscopy (FURS) for renal stone management utilizing the ILY® robotic system. Patient demographics, stone characteristics, surgical durations, perioperative and post-operative complications, and follow-up parameters were collected. Our primary outcome was evaluating the efficacy and safety of the ILY® robotic ureteroscopy for treating kidney stones. Therefore, we analyzed complication rates, surgical durations, and the stone-free rate during follow-up. RESULTS: Our cohort consisted of 29 patients, presenting with 45 stones with a median volume of 736.22 mm3. The median operation time was 85 min, accompanied by 3 min for robot draping, 3.5 min for robot docking, 48 min of console operation, and lasing time of 36.75 min. Post operative stay for all patients was 1 day, while complications were observed in 9.68% of cases. Notably, all complications were classified as CVD (Clavien-Dindo) class 1 due to pain requiring emergency department visit. The stone-free rate achieved was 93.55%, and none of the patient required reoperation for the treated stone. CONCLUSION: In the first prospective clinical experience of the ILY® robotic FURS, we demonstrated its efficacy and safety. To further investigate its clinical practical value, additional investigations are warranted, including direct comparative analyses with manual flexible ureteroscopy techniques.

Short-term outcomes of laparoscopic and robotic distal gastrectomy for gastric cancer: Real-world evidence from a large-scale inpatient database in Japan.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Robotic distal gastrectomy (RDG) has been widely performed throughout Japan since it became insured in 2018. This study aimed to evaluate the short-term outcomes of RDG and laparoscopic distal gastrectomy (LDG) for gastric cancer using real-world data. METHODS: A total of 4161 patients who underwent LDG (n = 3173) or RDG (n = 988) for gastric cancer between April 2018 and October 2022 were identified through the Japanese Diagnosis Procedure Combination Database, which covers 42 national university hospitals. The primary outcome was postoperative in-hospital mortality rate. The secondary outcomes were postoperative complication rates, time to diet resumption, and postoperative length of stay (LOS). RESULTS: In-hospital mortality and postoperative complication rates in the RDG group were comparable with those in the LDG group (0.1% vs. 0.0%, p = 1.000, and 8.7% vs. 8.2%, p = 0.693, respectively). RDG was associated with a longer duration of anesthesia (325 vs. 262 min, p < 0.001), similar time to diet resumption (3 vs. 3 days, p < 0.001), and shorter postoperative LOS (10 vs. 11 days, p < 0.001) compared with LDG. CONCLUSIONS: RDG was performed safely and provided shorter postoperative LOS, since it became covered by insurance in Japan.

Modified three-layer vesicourethral reconstruction in robot-assisted radical prostatectomy can change cystography pattern and improve early recovery of continence.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: To determine early continence outcomes after three-layer vesicourethral reconstruction during robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) and the role of postoperative cystography pattern. METHODS: Between May 2015 and January 2019, a total of 170 consecutive patients with localized prostate cancer who underwent RARP, were divided into one- and three-layer groups based on the method of vesicourethral reconstruction. Continent status, preoperative, intraoperative, postoperative, clinicopathological variables, and cystography parameters were analyzed. The patients were followed up for at least 12 months. RESULTS: Of the 170 consecutive patients, 85 with one-layer vesicourethral anastomosis, and 85 with three-layer reconstruction. The continence rates immediately after catheter removal, 4, 12, and 24 weeks after RARP were 47.1%, 75.3%, 92.9%, and 98.8% in the three-layer group; compared to 15.3%, 60%, 78.8%, and 90.6% in the one-layer group, respectively. In the multivariate analysis, three-layer reconstruction was the only independent variable with a 42% risk reduction of postprostatectomy incontinence (hazard ratio (HR): 0.58, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.42-0.80, p = 0.001). Cystography in the three-layer group revealed less anastomotic leakage, less sharp bladder neck angle, and higher bladder neck level category. CONCLUSIONS: Three-layer anatomical reconstruction demonstrated promising early continence outcomes, and postoperative cystography revealed a specific pattern more associated with continence.

Oncological outcomes after laparotomic, laparoscopic, and robot-assisted laparoscopic staging for early-stage high-intermediate or high-risk endometrial cancer.

OBJECTIVES: To compare oncological outcomes in patients with early-stage high-intermediate or high-risk endometrial cancer undergoing surgical staging by laparotomy, conventional laparoscopy, or robot-assisted laparoscopy. METHODS: Patients diagnosed between 2015 and 2021 with stage I-II (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics 2009), high-intermediate or high-risk endometrial cancer who underwent staging surgery, were identified in the Netherlands Cancer Registry. Five-year disease-free survival and overall survival were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method, and differences between groups were evaluated using log-rank testing. Additionally, survival analyses were stratified by histological subtype. The effect of surgical modality on risk of recurrence and all-cause death was assessed by performing Cox regression analysis with inverse probability treatment weighting. RESULTS: In total 941 patients met the inclusion criteria, of whom 399 (42.4%) underwent staging surgery by laparotomy, 273 (29.0%) by laparoscopy, and 269 (28.6%) by robot-assisted laparoscopy. Baseline characteristics were comparable between the three groups. No difference in disease-free survival (75.0% vs 71.2% vs 79.0% p=0.35) or overall survival (72.7% vs 72.3% vs 71.2% p=0.98) was observed between patients after laparotomy, laparoscopy, or robot-assisted laparoscopy, respectively. Subanalyses based on histological subtype showed comparable disease-free survival and overall survival between surgical approaches. After correcting for possible confounders by means of inverse probability treatment weighting, there was no significantly increased risk of recurrence or risk of all-cause death after laparoscopy or robot-assisted laparoscopy. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic and robot-assisted laparoscopic staging surgery in women with early-stage high-intermediate or high-risk endometrial cancer are safe alternatives to laparotomic staging surgery.

Task division by multiple console surgeons is beneficial for safe robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy implementation and education.

BACKGROUND: The optimal approach for the safe implementation and education of robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy (RPD) remains unclear. Prolonged operation time may cause surgeon fatigue and result in perioperative complications. To solve this issue, our department adopted task division by the console surgeon turnover between resection and reconstruction in 2022. METHODS: This study retrospectively investigated consecutive patients who underwent RPD from November 2009 (initial introduction of RPD) to December 2023. The analysis excluded patients who underwent concomitant resection of other organs. The cases performed by a single console surgeon (single approach) were compared with those performed by two or more console surgeons (multiple approach). RESULTS: This study analyzed 85 consecutive RPD cases, including 51 with the single approach and 34 with the multiple approach. The operation time was significantly shorter (832 vs. 618 min, p < 0.001), and the postoperative major complication was less frequent (45% vs. 12%, p = 0.003) in the multiple approach group, although less experienced surgeons performed the multiple approach (number of RPD experiences: 19 cases vs. 5 cases, p < 0.001). The console surgeon turnover between the resection and reconstruction resulted in a safe pancreatojejunostomy performed by the less experienced surgeon (number of pancreatic reconstruction experiences: 6.5 vs. 14 cases, p = 0.010). Surgeons who started RPD with a multiple approach observed a reduction in surgical time and a lower incidence of complications earlier than those who started with a single approach. CONCLUSION: Task division during the early introduction phase of RPD using the multiple approach demonstrated potential contributions to improved surgical outcomes and enhanced educational benefits.

Assessing minimally invasive simple hysterectomy in low risk cervical cancer: set up for the LASH trial.

After the publication of the Laparoscopic Approach to Cervical Cancer (LACC) trial, open surgery has become the standard approach for radical hysterectomy in early stage cervical cancer. Recent studies assessed the role of a non-radical approach in low risk cervical cancer and showed no survival difference compared with radical hysterectomy. However, there is a gap in knowledge regarding the oncologic outcomes of minimally invasive simple hysterectomy in low risk cervical cancer. This review offers an overview of the current evidence on the role of the minimally invasive approach in low risk cervical cancer and raises the need for a new clinical trial in this setting.

Hospital volume-outcome relationships for robot-assisted surgeries: a population-based analysis.

BACKGROUND: Associations between procedure volumes and outcomes can inform minimum volume standards and the regionalization of health services. Robot-assisted surgery continues to expand globally; however, data are limited regarding which hospitals should be using the technology. STUDY DESIGN: Using administrative health data for all residents of Ontario, Canada, this retrospective cohort study included adult patients who underwent a robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP), total robotic hysterectomy (TRH), robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN), or robotic portal lobectomy using 4 arms (RPL-4) between January 2010 and September 2021. Associations between yearly hospital volumes and 90-day major complications were evaluated using multivariable logistic regression models adjusted for patient characteristics and clustering at the level of the hospital. RESULTS: A total of 10,879 patients were included, with 7567, 1776, 724, and 812 undergoing a RARP, TRH, RAPN, and RPL-4, respectively. Yearly hospital volume was not associated with 90-day complications for any procedure. Doubling of yearly volume was associated with a 17-min decrease in operative time for RARP (95% confidence interval [CI] - 23 to - 10), 8-min decrease for RAPN (95% CI - 14 to - 2), 24-min decrease for RPL-4 (95% CI - 29 to - 19), and no significant change for TRH (- 7 min; 95% CI - 17 to 3). CONCLUSION: The risk of 90-day major complications does not appear to be higher in low volume hospitals; however, they may not be as efficient with operating room utilization. Careful case selection may have contributed to the lack of an observed association between volumes and complications.

Hospital learning curves for robot-assisted surgeries: a population-based analysis.

BACKGROUND: Robot-assisted surgery has been rapidly adopted. It is important to define the learning curve to inform credentialling requirements, training programs, identify fast and slow learners, and protect patients. This study aimed to characterize the hospital learning curve for common robot-assisted procedures. STUDY DESIGN: This cohort study, using administrative health data for Ontario, Canada, included adult patients who underwent a robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP), total robotic hysterectomy (TRH), robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN), or robotic portal lobectomy using four arms (RPL-4) between 2010 and 2021. The association between cumulative hospital volume of a robot-assisted procedure and major complications was evaluated using multivariable logistic models adjusted for patient characteristics and clustering at the hospital level. RESULTS: A total of 6814 patients were included, with 5230, 543, 465, and 576 patients in the RARP, TRH, RAPN, and RPL-4 cohorts, respectively. There was no association between cumulative hospital volume and major complications. Visual inspection of learning curves demonstrated a transient worsening of outcomes followed by subsequent improvements with experience. Operative time decreased for all procedures with increasing volume and reached plateaus after approximately 300 RARPs, 75 TRHs, and 150 RPL-4s. The odds of a prolonged length of stay decreased with increasing volume for patients undergoing a RARP (OR 0.87; 95% CI 0.82-0.92) or RPL-4 (OR 0.77; 95% CI 0.68-0.87). CONCLUSION: Hospitals may adopt robot-assisted surgery without significantly increasing the risk of major complications for patients early in the learning curve and with an expectation of increasing efficiency.

A cost-effectiveness analysis of sentinel lymph node biopsy compared with lymphadenectomy in intermediate- and high-risk endometrial carcinoma.

BACKGROUND: Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLN) is increasingly used for surgical staging of endometrial carcinoma. OBJECTIVE: To estimate the effect and cost-effectiveness of the implementation of an SLN algorithm for surgical staging in patients with intermediate- and high-risk endometrial carcinoma compared with lymphadenectomy. METHODS: We performed a model-based, cost-effectiveness analysis using primary data from a tertiary referral hospital that included 829 patients with endometrial carcinoma undergoing surgical staging. We quantified the health and economic outcomes from two time periods, before and after implementation of the SLN algorithm by robotic surgery. Costs were measured directly from the hospital's financial department, while long-term health outcomes were estimated using self-reported lymphedema and health-related quality-of-life among survivors. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to evaluate uncertainty. RESULTS: We projected that the SLN implementation period, predominately reflecting use of robotic SLN, simultaneously improved health outcomes (0.08 incremental quality-adjusted life-years) and lowered costs (US$1051) compared with the prior period involving robotic or open lymphadenectomy. SLN remained more beneficial and less costly across key sensitivity analyses-namely, varying the cost of the robotic platform, surgical equipment, number of yearly robotic procedures, percentage of robotic procedures versus percentage of laparotomies, length of stay, and lymphedema development. After 1000 simulations of the model, SLN implementation provided greater health benefits for lower costs (ie, cost saving) in 89% of simulations. CONCLUSION: Implementation of an SLN algorithm in the staging of intermediate- and high-risk endometrial carcinoma improved health outcomes for lower costs compared with lymphadenectomy. Cost-effectiveness could further improve by continuing to increase the proportion of robotic procedures.

Reduced-port robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy with optimized surgical field deployment: early results of single-site plus-two ports method.

BACKGROUND: The adoption of Robotic Pancreaticoduodenectomy (RPD) is increasing globally. Meanwhile, reduced-port RPD (RPRPD) remains uncommon, requiring robot-specific techniques not possible with laparoscopy. We introduce a unique RPRPD technique optimizing surgical field exposure. METHODS: Our RPRPD utilizes a single-site plus-two ports technique, facilitated by a single-port platform through a 5-cm incision. The configuration of robotic arms (arm1, arm2, arm3, and arm4) were strategically designed for optimal procedural efficiency, with the arms2 and arm3, alongside the assistant trocar, mounted on the single-port platform, while the arms1 and arm4 were positioned laterally across the abdomen. Drainage was established via channels created at the arm1 and arm4 insertion sites. A "gooseneck traction" was principally employed with the robotic instrument to prop up the specimen rather than grasp, improving the surgical field's visibility and access. Clinical outcomes of patients who underwent RPRPD performed between August 2020 and September 2023 by a single surgeon across two centers in Taiwan and Japan were reviewed. RESULTS: Fifty patients underwent RPRPD using the single-site plus-two ports technique. The gooseneck traction technique enabled goodsurgical field deployment and allowed for unrestricted movement of robotic arms with no collisions with the assistant instruments. The median operative time was 351 min (250-488 min), including 271 min (219-422 min) of console time and three minutes (2-10 min) of docking time. The median estimated blood loss was 80 mL (1-872 mL). All RPRPD procedures were successfully performed without the need for conversion to open surgery. Postoperative major morbidity (i.e., Clavien-Dindo grade ≥ IIIa) was observed in 6 (12%) patients and median postoperative hospital stay was 13 days. CONCLUSIONS: The single-site plus-two ports RPRPD with the gooseneck traction proves to be a safe, feasible option, facilitating surgical field visibility and robotic arm maneuverability.

EAES/SAGES evidence-based recommendations and expert consensus on optimization of perioperative care in older adults.

BACKGROUND: As the population ages, more older adults are presenting for surgery. Age-related declines in physiological reserve and functional capacity can result in frailty and poor outcomes after surgery. Hence, optimizing perioperative care in older patients is imperative. Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) pathways and Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) may influence surgical outcomes, but current use and impact on older adults patients is unknown. The aim of this study was to provide evidence-based recommendations on perioperative care of older adults undergoing major abdominal surgery. METHODS: Expert consensus determined working definitions for key terms and metrics related to perioperative care. A systematic literature review and meta-analysis was performed using the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Clinicaltrials.gov databases for 24 pre-defined key questions in the topic areas of prehabilitation, MIS, and ERAS in major abdominal surgery (colorectal, upper gastrointestinal (UGI), Hernia, and hepatopancreatic biliary (HPB)) to generate evidence-based recommendations following the GRADE methodology. RESULT: Older adults were defined as 65 years and older. Over 20,000 articles were initially retrieved from search parameters. Evidence synthesis was performed across the three topic areas from 172 studies, with meta-analyses conducted for MIS and ERAS topics. The use of MIS and ERAS was recommended for older adult patients particularly when undergoing colorectal surgery. Expert opinion recommended prehabilitation, cessation of smoking and alcohol, and correction of anemia in all colorectal, UGI, Hernia, and HPB procedures in older adults. All recommendations were conditional, with low to very low certainty of evidence, with the exception of ERAS program in colorectal surgery. CONCLUSIONS: MIS and ERAS are recommended in older adults undergoing major abdominal surgery, with evidence supporting use in colorectal surgery. Though expert opinion supported prehabilitation, there is insufficient evidence supporting use. This work has identified evidence gaps for further studies to optimize older adults undergoing major abdominal surgery.

First experience with the Hugo™ robot-assisted surgery system for endometriosis: A descriptive study.

INTRODUCTION: The Medtronic Hugo™ Robot-assisted Surgery (RAS) system was recently approved for clinical use. We explored the safety and feasibility of this system for endometriosis surgery. The primary outcome was safe case completion without major surgical complications (Clavien-Dindo grade ≤2) and no conversion to open surgery or laparoscopy. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Surgeries for endometriosis performed at the Department of Gynecology, Rigshospitalet, on the Medtronic Hugo™ RAS system were included. Two experienced robotic surgeons performed all surgeries with their usual robotic team. The variables included were patient demographics, peri- and postoperative data, complications and 30-day readmission rate. We used the IDEAL framework 1/2a for surgical innovation in this descriptive study. RESULTS: The first 12 patients were included. All cases were completed without intraoperative complications or conversion. Four patients experienced Clavien-Dindo grade 1 postoperative complications. No patients were re-admitted within 30 days. Median docking time (17 minutes), console time (87.5 minutes), blood loss (40 mL) and length of hospital stay (1 day) were acceptable compared with previous literature. CONCLUSIONS: In this pilot study, we found the Medtronic Hugo™ RAS system safe and feasible for robot-assisted surgery for endometriosis. The advent of new robotic systems is welcomed to accelerate the development of technology that will advance surgical care for patients across the globe.

Minimally invasive cytoreductive radical prostatectomy, exploring the safety and feasibility of a single-port or multi-port robotic platform.

BACKGROUND: Consolidative resection or cytoreductive radical prostatectomy (CRP) may benefit men with non-organ confined prostate cancer. We report the safety, feasibility, and outcomes of robot-assisted laparoscopic CRP using a single-port (SP) or multi-port (MP) platform. METHODS: We reviewed consecutive men with clinical node positive or metastatic castrate-sensitive prostate cancer who underwent IRB-approved CRP and extended pelvic lymph node dissection using the da Vinci SP or MP Surgical Systems (Intuitive Surgical, Sunnyvale, CA) from 2015-2022. Perioperative data and Clavien-Dindo 90-day complications were recorded. RESULTS: Twenty-four men with a median age of 61 (IQR 56-69) years and prostate-specific antigen of 32.1 (IQR 21.9-62.3) ng/mL were included. Clinical N1, M1, or N1 + M1 disease were detected in 8 (33%), 9 (38%), 7 (29%) patients, respectively. There was no difference in positive margins, 41% vs. 29% (P = 0.67), lymph node yield, 21 (IQR 14-28) vs. 20 (IQR 13.5-21) nodes (P = 0.31), or estimated blood loss, 150 mL (IQR 100-200) vs. 50 mL (IQR 50-125) (P = 0.06), between the MP and SP cohorts, respectively. Hospital length of stay was significantly shorter for the SP group, same-day discharge (IQR 0-0), compared to MP, 1-day (IQR 1-1), P < 0.001. One grade III bowel obstruction and lymphocele occurred in the MP cohort. No major complications occurred in the SP cohort. CONCLUSION: Robot-assisted laparoscopic CRP is safe and feasible for select men with advanced castrate-sensitive prostate cancer.