Evaluation of telesurgical (robotic) NISSEN fundoplication.

BACKGROUND: The laparoscopic surgical approach has proven its benefit for the patient. There are however several shortcomings, which have triggered considerable research for improvement. One improvement may be the introduction of telesurgery by the interposition of a computer interface between surgeon and patient. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A prospective randomized study was conducted in an advanced laparoscopic procedure, Nissen fundoplication. The control group underwent the conventional laparoscopic approach, while the investigational group underwent the telesurgical approach. RESULTS: Feasibility was 100%. The procedure was more time consuming in the Telesurgical group, at all stages of the operation. Mortality was nil and morbidity was comparable in both groups. CONCLUSION: The telesurgical approach is feasible in advanced laparoscopic procedures like Nissen fundoplication. At the present time there is however no obvious added benefit from this new technique.