Single-docking Totally Robotic Low-Anterior Resection or Pull-Through Intersphincteric Resection

Abstract

Laparoscopic total mesorectal excision (TME) for rectal cancer is still technically demanding procedure with high conversion rates because of the narrow and confined pelvic space. Its pitfall of laparoscopy to rectal surgery can be overcome with application of the da Vinci robotic platform which has several advantages including three-dimensional magnified vision, stable camera platform, tremor elimination, stable traction, and articulating EndoWrist. Recent several studies for robotic rectal surgery have demonstrated a lower conversion rate and comparable short-term operative and oncologic outcomes comparing with laparoscopy. It is no doubt that well-organized randomized trials are still needed; however, it is certain that the robotic system is very effective for rectal cancer surgery.