Totally robotic low anterior resection

Abstract

To maximize the advantages of robotic surgical system, we have developed a single-stage totally robotic low anterior resection (LAR) for rectal cancer and improved this technique to further facilitate easy and safe operations.Compared with the hybrid technique, it can potentially offer better preservation of autonomic nerves during vascular dissection and easier mobilization of splenic flexure. Very few limitations specific to totally robotic LAR exist. The current evidence suggests that robotic rectal cancer resection was associated with longer operating time but could potentially provide better short-term outcomes including lower conversion rate, lower circumferential margin positivity, and better functional preservation. Although the initial reports are promising, multicenter, randomized clinical trials are essential to verify long-term oncological and functional benefits of this new technology. © Springer Science+Business Media New York 2014.