Robotic assistance is technically superior to conventional laparoscopy in hemicolectomies.

OBJECTIVE: An objective assessment of robotic assistance in hemicolectomies.

BACKGROUND: Robotic assistance has been objectively shown to be superior to conventional laparoscopy in anterior resections. This follow-up study analyzes the role of robotics in hemicolectomies.

METHODS: Operative videos of laparoscopic and robotic hemicolectomies were reviewed. Only oncological resections were included. Two components were evaluated - scope holder performance and assistant instrument performance.

RESULTS: A total of 40 videos were reviewed. The cases were stratified in equal numbers based on method of surgery (robotic, laparoscopic), type of hemicolectomy (right, left), and seniority of the bedside assistant (specialist, non-specialist). The views achieved in robotic surgery were superior and less dependent on the bedside assistant. The degree of assistance provided by the robotic system was also more than that in the conventional laparoscopic group.

CONCLUSIONS: Robotics provides superior visualization and more dynamic assistance than conventional laparoscopy in hemicolectomies. This study demonstrates the technical advantage of robotic assistance, but not necessarily a superiority in clinical outcome.