Robotic versus laparoscopic total mesorectal excision for rectal cancer: a comparative analysis of oncological safety and short-term outcomes

Abstract

R-TME in rectal cancer is feasible, with short-term oncologic and other outcomes similar to those of L-TME. The greater maneuverability and visibility afforded by the robotic approach are attractive. Future studies should more systematically address advantages and costs of R-TME.

A review on robotic surgery in rectal cancer

“…Similar findings were presented in other studies, where robotic surgery was shown to have lower or even a zero conversion rate (20)(21)(22). Despite this, other studies found no difference in conversion rates between robotic and laparoscopic surgery (23)(24)(25)(26).…”

The Role of Minimally Invasive Surgery and Outcomes in Colorectal Cancer

“…37 In addition, the median number of lymph nodes examined did not differ between the groups. Also in 2010, a larger Korean study reported short-term outcomes of robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery for low rectal cancer in 113 patients assigned to either laparoscopic or robotic rectal resection.…”

The robotic colorectal surgeon

“…Several series of robotic TME suggest adequate short-term outcomes, with operative times in the neighbourhood of 300 minutes, low or zero positive margin rates and acceptable rates of anastomotic leak of 7%-10% 9,20 . A comparative study for TME found no difference in short-term outcomes or oncologic adequacy of the resected specimen compared to laparoscopic TME 21 . A meta-analysis of the subject identified 16 studies comparing laparoscopic and robotic TMEs; this found longer operative time and cost for robotic procedures; however, they were observed to have lower blood loss.…”