Adoption of robotic technology in Turkey: A nationwide analysis on caseload and platform used

Abstract

Background Limited data exist regarding adoption of evolving robotic technology in surgery. This study evaluated trends and the current condition of robotic platforms in surgical specialties and general surgical subspecialties. Methods Between January 2013 and December 2017, all robotic operations performed in Turkey were included. Results In the study period, 13 760 robotic operations were performed at 32 hospitals. The median numbers of general surgical procedures were 43and eight cases per hospital and per general surgeon, respectively. The high‐volume general surgeons performed 1734 (81%) of the cases. Forty‐five percent and 55% of the general surgical operations were performed with the Xi and S/Si robots, respectively. Conclusion Use of the Xi platform seems to increase caseload in general surgery operations possibly by facilitating robotic colorectal surgery. Targeting the high‐volume centres and surgeons for further training and implantation of upcoming robotic technology can be more effective in terms of increasing case volume and improving outcomes.

Totally laparoscopic and totally robotic surgery in patients with left‐sided colonic diverticulitis

“…The da Vinci Xi system can decrease the docking number and reduce the use of hybrid techniques . The Xi platform remarkably promoted robotic colorectal surgery in our institution and Turkey . Grass et al presented the largest series on robotic resection for LCD with the Xi platform in 150 patients; they reported 7% of overall conversion rate, which varies between 10% to 3% for complicated and uncomplicated LCD …”

“…High expenses of the robotic equipment has been an obstacle preventing widespread adoption of the robotic technique in the field of colorectal surgery. Standardization of operative equipment and technique may reduce cost with a good quality of care . In addition, we have no long‐term data regarding to possible recurrences in those patients.…”

“…In American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons' Guidelines, laparoscopy is recommended when certain expertise is available because of the short‐term benefits of minimally invasive surgery . However, laparoscopy has some inherent disadvantages that may limit its use in complex conditions, including 2‐D visualization, reduced ergonomics in narrow spaces, and tremor effect . Robotic technique can potentially be a superior alternative to laparoscopy by providing 3‐D vision, improving maneuverability and operative comfort .…”

“…However, laparoscopy has some inherent disadvantages that may limit its use in complex conditions, including 2‐D visualization, reduced ergonomics in narrow spaces, and tremor effect . Robotic technique can potentially be a superior alternative to laparoscopy by providing 3‐D vision, improving maneuverability and operative comfort . However, data on the outcomes of robotic surgery for the treatment of complicated LCD are scarce.…”

Totally minimally invasive radical gastrectomy with the da Vinci Xi® robotic system versus straight laparoscopy for gastric adenocarcinoma

“…6 As a more flexible model, the Xi platform facilitates to perform multi-quadrant surgery without requirement of multiple docking and reduces the need for laparoscopic aid. 6 Existing data regarding the use of da Vinci Xi ® system for a totally robotic gastrectomy compared to laparoscopy are lacking. This study aims to compare short-term post-operative outcomes in patients undergoing totally minimally invasive radical gastrectomy with the da Vinci Xi ® robotic system versus straight laparoscopy for gastric adenocarcinoma.…”