Is the learning curve of the urology resident for conventional radical prostatectomy similar to that of staff initiating robot-assisted radical prostatectomy?

ABSTRACT Introduction: The superiority of the functional results of robot-assisted radical prostatectomyis still controversial. Despite this, it is known that minimally invasive surgery obtains better results when analyzing blood loss, blood transfusion and length of stay, for example. Several studies have analyzed the impact of the resident physician's involvement on the results of urological surgeries. The simple learning curve for robot-assisted radical prostate surgery is estimated to be around 10 to 12 cases. Learning curve data for robotic surgeons is heterogeneous, making it difficult to analyze. Rare studies compare the results of a radical prostatectomy of an inexperienced surgeon starting his training in open surgery, with the results of the same surgeon, a few years later, starting training in robotic surgery. Objective: to analyze the results of open radical prostatectomy surgeries (ORP) performed by urology residents, comparing them to the results of robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP), performed by these same surgeons, after completing their training in urology. Materials and methods: a retrospective analysis of the cases of only 3 surgeons was performed. 50 patients underwent ORP (group A). The surgeons who operated on the ORP patients were in the 3rd and final year of the urology residency program and beginners in ORP surgery, but with at least 4 years of experience in open surgery. The same surgeons, already trained urologists, began their training in robotic surgery and performed 56 RARP surgeries (group B). For the comparative analysis, data were collected on age, number of lymph nodes removed, surgery time, hospitalization time, drain volume, drain permanence time, indwelling bladdercateter (IBC) permanence time, positive surgical margin, biochemical recurrence, risk classification (ISUP), intra and postoperative complications, urinary incontinence (UI) and erectile dysfunction (ED). The console used was the Da Vinci Si, from Intuitive®. For statistical analysis, the Shapiro-Wilk test verified that the data did not follow normality, the Levene test guaranteed homogeneity, and the Mann-Whitney test performed the comparative analysis of the quantitative data. For the analysis of qualitative data, the Chi-square test was used for nominal variables and the Mann-Whitney U test for ordinal variables. Additionally, the Friedman test analyzed whether there was an improvement in the perception of UI or ED over the months, for each group individually (without comparing them), and the post-hoc Durbin-Conover test, for the results with statistically significant difference. We used a p-value < 0.05, and the Jamovi® program (Version 2.0). Results: there was no statistically significant difference between the groups for age, number of lymph nodes removed, positive surgical margin, biochemical recurrence, risk classification and urinary incontinence. Additionally, we observed that the surgical time was longer in group B. On the other hand, the length of stay, drain volume, drain time, IBC time, complication rate and levels of erectile dysfunction in the third and sixth months were higher in group A, when compared to group B. We also observed that there was no evolutionary improvement in ED over the months in both groups, and that there was a perception of improvement in UI from the 1st to the 3rd month in group A, and from the 1st to the 6th month, and from the 3rd to the 12th month, in group B. Conclusion: the learning curve of RARP is equivalent to the curve of ORP. In general, the results for the robotic group were better, however, the functional results were similar between the groups, with a slight tendency of advantage for the robotic arm.

Identify risk factors for perioperative outcomes in Intracorporeal Urinary Diversion and Extracorporeal Urinary Diversion with Robotic Cystectomy

ABSTRACT Introduction: The increasing adoption of robotic-assisted cystectomy with intracorporeal urinary diversion (ICUD), despite its complexity, prompts a detailed comparison with extracorporeal urinary diversion (ECUD). Our study at a single institution investigates perioperative outcomes and identifies risk factors impacting the success of these surgical approaches. Methods: In this retrospective analysis, 174 patients who underwent robotic-assisted cystectomy at the University of Louisville from June 2016 to August 2021 were reviewed. The cohort was divided into two groups based on the urinary diversion method: 30 patients underwent ECUD and 144 underwent ICUD. Data on demographics, complication rates, length of hospital stay, and readmission rates were meticulously collected and analyzed. Results: Operative times were comparable between the ICUD and ECUD groups. However, the ICUD group had a significantly lower intraoperative transfusion rate (0.5 vs. 1.0, p=0.02) and shorter hospital stay (7.8 vs. 12.3 days, p<0.001). Factors such as male sex, smoking history, diabetes mellitus, intravesical therapy, higher ASA, and ACCI scores were associated with increased Clavien-Dindo Grade 3 or higher complications. Age over 70 was the sole factor linked to a higher 90-day readmission rate, with no specific characteristics influencing the 30-day rate. Conclusion: Robotic cystectomy with ICUD results in shorter hospitalizations and lower intraoperative transfusion rates compared to ECUD, without differences in operative time, high-grade postoperative complications, or readmission rates. These findings can inform clinical decision-making, highlighting ICUD as a potentially more favorable option in appropriate settings.

Postoperative antibiotic prophylaxis for percutaneous nephrolithotomy and risk of infection: a systematic review and meta-analysis

ABSTRACT Purpose: The aim of this study is to perform a high-quality meta-analysis using only randomized controlled trials (RCT) to better define the role of postoperative antibiotics in patients undergoing percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). Materials and Methods: A literature search for RCTs in EMBASE, PubMed, and Web of Science up to May 2023 was conducted following the PICO framework: Population—adult patients who underwent PCNL; Intervention—postoperative antibiotic prophylaxis until nephrostomy tube withdrawal; Control—single dose of antibiotic during the induction of anesthesia; and Outcome—systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) or sepsis and fever after PCNL. The protocol was registered on the PROSPERO database (CRD42022361579). We calculated odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). A random-effects model was employed, and the alpha risk was defined as < 0.05. Results: Seven articles, encompassing a total of 629 patients, were included in the analysis. The outcome of SIRS or sepsis was extracted from six of the included studies, while the outcome of postoperative fever was extracted from four studies. The analysis revealed no statistical association between the use of postoperative antibiotic prophylaxis until nephrostomy tube withdrawal and the occurrence of SIRS/sepsis (OR 1.236, 95% CI 0.731 - 2.089, p=0.429) or fever (OR 2.049, 95% CI 0.790 - 5.316, p=0.140). Conclusion: Our findings suggest that there is no benefit associated with the use of postoperative antibiotic prophylaxis until nephrostomy tube withdrawal in patients undergoing percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). We recommend that antibiotic prophylaxis should be administered only until the induction of anesthesia in PCNL.

Impacts on functional and oncological outcomes of Robotic-assisted Radical Prostatectomy 10 years after the US Preventive Service Taskforce recommendations against PSA screening

ABSTRACT Objective: In the following years after the United States Preventive Service Task Force (USPSTF) recommendation against prostate cancer screening with PSA in 2012, several authors worldwide described an increase in higher grades and aggressive prostate tumors. In this scenario, we aim to evaluate the potential impacts of USPSTF recommendations on the functional and oncological outcomes in patients undergoing robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) in a referral center. Material and Methods: We included 11396 patients who underwent RARP between 2008 and 2021. Each patient had at least a 12-month follow-up. The cohort was divided into two groups based on an inflection point in the outcomes at the end of 2012 and the beginning of 2013. The inflection point period was detected by Bayesian regression with multiple change points and regression with unknown breakpoints. We reported continuous variables as median and interquartile range (IQR) and categorical variables as absolute and relative percent frequencies. Results: Group 1 had 4760 patients, and Group 2 had 6636 patients, with a median follow-up of 109 and 38 months, respectively. In the final pathology, Group 2 had 9.5% increase in tumor volume, 24% increase on Gleason ≥ 4+3 (ISUP 3), and 18% increase on ≥ pT3. This translated to a 6% increase in positive surgical margins and 24% reduction in full nerve sparing in response to the worsening pathology. There was a significant decline in post-operative outcomes in Group 2, including a 12-month continence reduction of 9%, reduction in potency by 27%, and reduction of trifecta by 22%. Conclusions: The increasing number of high-risk patients has led to worse functional and oncologic outcomes. The initial rapid rise in PSM was leveled by the move towards more partial nerve sparing. Among some historical changes in prostate cancer diagnosis and management in the period of our study, the USPSTF recommendation coincided with worse outcomes of prostate cancer treatment in a population who could benefit from PSA screening at the appropriate time.

Surgical safety and effectiveness of bilateral axillo-breast approach robotic thyroidectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Objectives To assess the safety and effectiveness of bilateral axillo-breast approach robotic thyroidectomy in thyroid tumor. Methods Bilateral axillo-breast approach robotic thyroidectomy and other approaches (open thyroidectomy, transoral robotic thyroidectomy, and bilateral axillo-breast approach endoscopic thyroidectomy) were compared in studies from 6 databases. Results Twenty-two studies (8830 individuals) were included. Bilateral axillo-breast approach robotic thyroidectomy had longer operation time, greater cosmetic satisfaction, and reduced transient hypoparathyroidism than conventional open thyroidectomy. Compared to bilateral axillo-breast approach endoscopic thyroidectomy, bilateral axillo-breast approach robotic thyroidectomy had greater amount of drainage, lower chances of transient vocal cord palsy and permanent hypothyroidism, and better surgical completeness (postopertive thyroblobulin level and lymph node removal). Bilateral axillo-breast approach robotic thyroidectomy induced greater postoperative drainage and greater patient dissatisfaction than transoral robotic thyroidectomy. Conclusion Bilateral axillo-breast approach robotic thyroidectomy is inferior to transoral robotic thyroidectomy in drainage and cosmetic satisfaction but superior to bilateral axillo-breast approach endoscopic thyroidectomy in surgical performance. Its operation time is longer, but its cosmetic satisfaction is higher than open thyroidectomy.

Robotic and Plastic Surgery: actuality and prospects for the near future, a scoping review

ABSTRACT Objective This work aims to review the existing use of robotics in plastic surgery. Methods A meticulous selection process identified 22 articles relevant to this scoping review. Results The literature on the use of robotics in plastic surgery is sparse. Nonetheless, this review highlights emerging benefits in microsurgery, breast reconstruction, and transoral surgery. Conclusion This scoping review identifies critical articles reporting the emerging use of robotics in plastic surgery. While the scientific medical community has yet to extensively document its use, the available evidence suggests a promising future for robotics in this field.

Single Port Robotic Pyeloplasty: early single-center experience

ABSTRACT Purpose: Ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) is a prevalent cause of hydronephrosis, especially in young patients. The treatment paradigm for this condition has shifted from open to minimally invasive pyeloplasty. In the present study we describe our initial single centre experience with single port (SP) robot-assisted pyeloplasty (RAP) via periumbilical incision. Material and methods: With the patient in a 60-degree left flank position, the SP system is docked with the Access port (Intuitive Surgical, Sunnyvale, CA, US) placed in a periumbilical 3 cm incision. Robotic instruments are deployed as follows: camera at 12 o'clock, bipolar grasper at 9 o'clock, scissors at 3 o'clock and Cadiere at 6 o'clock. After isolation and identification of the ureter and the ureteropelvic junction (UPJ), the ureter is transected at this level and then spatulated. Anastomosis is carried out by two hemicontinuous running sutures, over a JJ stent. Results: Between 2021 and 2023, a total of 8 SP RAP have been performed at our institution, with a median (interquartile range, IQR) of 23 years (20.5-36.5). Intraoperative outcomes showed a median (IQR) OT of 210.5 minutes (190-240.5) and a median (IQR) estimated blood loss (EBL) of 50 mL (22.5-50). No postoperative complications were encountered, with a median (IQR) length of stay (LOS) of 31 hours (28.5-34). Conclusion: In the present study we evaluated the feasibility and safety of SP RAP. The observed outcomes and potential benefits, combined with the adaptability of the SP platform, hold promising implications for the application of SP system in pyeloplasty treatment.

Urological knowledge and tools applied to diagnosis and surgery in deep infiltrating endometriosis - a narrative review

ABSTRACT Objectives: This review discusses deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) diagnosis and surgery using current urological knowledge and technologies. Materials and Methods: Narrative review of deep infiltrating endometriosis that result in urological issues. We examined manuscripts from Pubmed, Embase, and Scielo's database using the following MeSH terms: ('endometriosis') AND ('urology' OR 'urological' OR 'urologist') AND ('bladder' OR'vesical') AND ('ureteral' OR 'ureter'). Selection followed PRISMA guidelines. Sample images from our records were brought to endorse the findings. Results: Thirty four related articles were chosen from 105. DIE may affect the urinary system in 52.6% of patients. Lower urinary tract symptoms may require urodynamic examination. Ultrasonography offers strong statistical yields for detecting urinary tract lesions or distortions, but magnetic resonance will confirm the diagnosis. Cystoscopy can detect active lesions, although any macroscopic visual appeal is pathognomonic. Endourology is utilized intraoperatively for bladder and ureteral assessment, however transurethral endoscopic excision of bladder lesions had higher recurrence rates. Laparoscopy is the route of choice for treatment; partial cystectomy, and bladder shaving were the most prevalent surgical treatments for bladder endometriosis. Regarding the ureteral treatment, the simple ureterolysis and complex reconstructive techniques were described in most papers. Using anatomical landmarks or neuronavigation, pelvic surgical systematization allows intraoperative neural structure identification. Conclusions: DIE in the urinary system is common, however the number of publications with high level of evidence is limited. The initial tools for diagnosis are ultrasonography and cystoscopy, but magnetic resonance is the most reliable tool. When the patient has voiding symptoms, the urodynamic examination is crucial. Laparoscopy improves lesion detection and anatomical understanding. This approach must be carried out by professionals with high expertise, since the surgery goes beyond the resection of lesions and includes the preservation of nerve structures and urinary tract reconstruction techniques.

Perioperative mortality for radical cystectomy in the modern Era: experience from a tertiary referral center

ABSTRACT Purpose To evaluate the perioperative mortality and contributing variables among patients who underwent radical cystectomy (RC) for bladder cancer in recent decades, with comparison between modern (after 2010) and premodern (before 2010) eras. Materials and Methods Using our institutional review board-approved database, we reviewed the records of patients who underwent RC for primary urothelial bladder carcinoma with curative intent from January 2003 to December 2019. The primary and secondary outcomes were 90- and 30-day mortality. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression models were applied to assess the impact of perioperative variables on 90-day mortality. Results A total of 2047 patients with a mean±SD age of 69.6±10.6 years were included. The 30- and 90-day mortality rates were 1.3% and 4.9%, respectively, and consistent during the past two decades. Among 100 deaths within 90 days, 18 occurred during index hospitalization. Infectious, pulmonary, and cardiac complications were the leading mortality causes. Multivariable analysis showed that age (Odds Ratio: OR 1.05), Charlson comorbidity index ≥ 2 (OR 1.82), blood transfusion (OR 1.95), and pathological node disease (OR 2.85) were independently associated with 90-day mortality. Nevertheless, the surgical approach and enhanced recovery protocols had no significant effect on 90-day mortality. Conclusion The 90-day mortality for RC is approaching five percent, with infectious, pulmonary, and cardiac complications as the leading mortality causes. Older age, higher comorbidity, blood transfusion, and pathological lymph node involvement are independently associated with 90-day mortality.

Implementation and outcomes of HugoTM RAS System in robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy

ABSTRACT Background The results and benefits of Robotic-assisted Radical Prostatectomy (RARP) are already established in the literature. However, new robotic platforms have been released recently in the market and their outcomes are still unknown. In this scenario, our objective is to describe our experience implementing the HugoTM RAS robot and report the clinical data of patients who underwent Robotic-assisted Radical Prostatectomy. Material and Methods We retrospectively analyzed fifteen consecutive patients who underwent RARP with HugoTM RAS System (Medtronic, Minneapolis, USA) from June to October 2021. The patients underwent transperitoneal RARP on lithotomy position, using six trocars (4 robotic trocars and 2 for the assistant). We reported the clinical feasibility and safety of this platform, assessing perioperative data, including complications and early outcomes. Continuous variables were reported as median and interquartile ranges, categorical variables as frequencies and proportions. Results and Limitations All procedures were safe and feasible with no major complications or conversion. Median operative time was 235 minutes (213-271), and median estimated blood loss was 300ml (100-310). Positive surgical margins were reported in 5 patients (33%). The median hospitalization time was 2 days (2-2), and the median time to remove the foley was 7 days (7-7). On the first appointment four weeks after surgery, all patients had undetectable PSA values, and 61% were continent. Conclusions We described preliminary results with safe and feasible procedures performed with HugoTM RAS System robotic platform. The surgeries were successfully executed with acceptable perioperative outcomes, without conversions or major complications. However, as this technology is very recent, further studies with a long-term follow-up are awaited to access postoperative functional and oncological outcomes.

Predictors of urinary function recovery after laparoscopic and robot-assisted radical prostatectomy

ABSTRACT Introduction: Even in the era of laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP) and robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RALP), we sometimes encounter patients with severe urinary incontinence after surgery. The aim of the present study was to identify predictors of urinary continence recovery among patients with urinary incontinence immediately after surgery (UIIAS). Materials and Methods: We identified 274 patients with clinically localized prostate cancer who underwent LRP and RALP between 2011 and 2018. UIIAS was defined as a urine loss ratio > 0.15 on the first day of urethral catheter removal. Urinary continence recovery was defined as using ≤ 1 pad/day one year after surgery. In the present study, we evaluated factors affecting urinary function recovery one year after surgery among patients with urinary incontinence immediately after LRP and RALP. Results: UIIAS was observed in 191 out of 274 patients (69.7%). A multivariate analysis identified age (< 65 years, p = 0.015) as an independent predictor affecting immediate urinary continence. Among 191 incontinent patients, urinary continence one year after surgery improved in 153 (80.1%). A multivariate analysis identified age (< 65 years, p = 0.003) and estimated blood loss (≥ 100 mL, p = 0.044) as independent predictors affecting urinary continence recovery one year after surgery. Conclusion: The present results suggest that younger patients and patients with higher intraoperative blood loss recover urinary continence one year after surgery even if they are incontinent immediately after surgery.

Comparing the outcomes of robotic assisted radical prostatectomy in black and white men: Experience of a high-volume center

ABSTRACT Background: Global cancer incidence ranks Prostate Cancer (CaP) as the second highest overall, with Africa and the Caribbean having the highest mortality. Previous literature suggests disparities in CaP outcomes according to ethnicity, specifically functional and oncological are suboptimal in black men. However, recent data shows black men achieve post radical prostatectomy (RP) outcomes equivalent to white men in a universally insured system. Our objective is to compare outcomes of patients who self-identified their ethnicity as black or white undergoing RP at our institution. Materials and methods: From 2008 to 2017, 396 black and 4929 white patients underwent primary robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) with a minimum follow-up of 5 years. Exclusion criteria were concomitant surgery and cancer status not available. A propensity score (PS) match was performed with a 1:1, 1:2, and 1:3 ratio without replacement. Primary endpoints were potency, continence recovery, biochemical recurrence (BCR), positive surgical margins (PSM), and post-operative complications. Results: After PS 1:1 matching, 341 black vs. 341 white men with a median follow-up of approximately 8 years were analyzed. The overall potency and continence recovery at 12 months was 52% vs 58% (p=0.3) and 82% vs 89% (p=0.3), respectively. PSM rates was 13.4 % vs 14.4% (p = 0.75). Biochemical recurrence and persistence PSA was 13.8% vs 14.1% and 4.4% vs 3.2% respectively (p=0.75). Clavien-Dindo complications (p=0.4) and 30-day readmission rates (p=0.5) were similar. Conclusion: In our study, comparing two ethnic groups with similar preoperative characteristics and full access to screening and treatment showed compatible RARP results. We could not demonstrate outcomes superiority in one group over the other. However, this data adds to the growing body of evidence that the racial disparity gap in prostate cancer outcomes can be narrowed if patients have appropriate access to prostate cancer management. It also could be used in counseling surgeons and patients on the surgical intervention and prognosis of prostate cancer in patients with full access to gold-standard screening and treatment.

Effect of transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation on postoperative pulmonary function in patients undergoing robot-assisted radical resection of colon cancer / 中华麻醉学杂志

Objective:To evaluate the effect of transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS) on postoperative pulmonary function in the patients undergoing robot-assisted radical resection of colon cancer.Method:Ninety-four patients of either sex, aged 50-80 yr, with body mass index of 18-25 kg/m 2, of American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status Ⅰ-Ⅲ, with ARISCAT grade of medium risk, undergoing elective robot-assisted radical resection of colon cancer, were enrolled in this study. The patients were divided into TEAS group (group T, n=47) and sham-TEAS group (group S, n=47) using a random number table method. In group T, patients received 30 min of TEAS at Hegu (LI4), Quchi (LI11), Zusanli (ST36) and Feishu (BL13) between 5: 00 and 7: 00 a. m. from 1st day before operation to 3rd day after operation, with disperse-dense wave 2/100 Hz, and the stimulation intensity was the maximum intensity that the patient could tolerate. Patients in group S were also connected to the device without electrical stimulation. Both groups adopted lung-protective ventilation strategy during operation. The oxygenation index was calculated at the time of entering the operating room (T 0), 5 min after anesthesia induction (T 1), 5 min of pneumoperitoneum (T 2), 5 min after changing to Trendelenburg position (T 3) and immediately after the end of pneumoperitoneum (T 4). Peak airway pressure, plateau airway pressure, driving pressure and dynamic lung compliance were recorded at T 0-T 4. The serum concentration of lung Clara cell 16 kDa protein was recorded using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay at T 0, T 4 and 2 h after extubation (T 5). On 1 day before operation and 1, 3 and 7 days after operation, the forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV 1) and forced vital capacity (FVC) were measured, and the FEV 1/FVC was calculated, and the concentrations of serum tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-6 and cardiopulmonary resuscitation were simultaneously determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The occurrence of pulmonary complications within 7 days after operation was recorded. Results:There was no significant difference in pH values, PaCO 2, oxygenation index, peak airway pressure, plateau airway pressure, driving pressure, and dynamic lung compliance at each time point between the two groups ( P>0.05). Compared with S group, the serum Clara cell 16 kDa protein concentrations were significantly decreased at T 5, FEV 1 and FVC were increased at 3 and 7 days after operation, the serum tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-6 and cardiopulmonary resuscitation concentrations were decreased at 1, 3 and 7 days after operation, the incidence of unexpected oxygen supply and total incidence of postoperative pulmonary complications were decreased ( P<0.05), and no significant change was found in FEV 1/FVC at each time point in T group ( P>0.05). Conclusions:TEAS can improve lung function in the patients undergoing robot-assisted radical resection of colon cancer.

Robot-assisted screws fixation for the treatment of fragility fractures of the pelvis / 中华骨科杂志

Objective:To investigate the clinical outcomes of fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFP) treated with robot-assisted screws, minimally reduction according to the pelvic osseous pathways.Methods:A retrospective analysis was performed on the data of 50 elderly patients with FFP treated by the Department of Trauma and Pelvic Trauma of Tianjin Hospital from March 2016 to October 2021, and the 50 patients with FFP were divided into robotic-assisted screw fixation group (robot group) and open reduction steel plate fixation group (open group) according to the fixation method. There were 30 patients in the Robot group, 6 males and 24 females, average age 75.03±7.32 years (range, 60-90 years). According to Rommens and Hofmann FFP classification, there were 4 cases of IIc type, 8 cases of IIIa type, 1 case of IIIb type, 12 cases of IIIc type, 3 cases of IVa type, 2 cases of IVb type. There were 20 patients in the open group, 5 males and 15 females, average age 71.90±5.51 years (range, 62-85 years). According to Rommens and Hofmann FFP classification, there were 2 cases of IIc type, 6 cases of IIIa type, 9 cases of IIIc type, 3 cases of IVa type. The two groups were compared with age, pelvic fracture classification, operation time, intraoperative blood loss, fracture reduction quality, visual analogue scale (VAS), Majeed score, and wound healing or not.Results:All patients were followed up for 12.72 months (range, 6-24 months). In the robot group, the operation time was 50.17±19.32 min (range, 30-120 min), and intraoperative blood loss was 55.50±28.60 ml (range, 10-150 ml); in the open group, the operation time was 92.25±27.55 min (range, 60-180 min), and intraoperative blood loss was 217.50±67.20 ml (range, 150-400 ml), there were statistical differences ( t=6.36, P<0.001; t=11.72, P<0.001). According to Mears and Velyvis imaging evaluation criteria, in the robot group, anatomical reduction were achieved in 10 cases, satifactory reduction were achieved in 20 cases; in the open group, anatomical reduction were achieved in 14 cases, satifactory reduction were achieved in 6 cases, there were statistical differences (χ 2=6.46, P=0.011). In the robot group, VAS for pelvic pain was 7.33±1.32 points (range, 4-9 points) before operation, 4.13±1.07 points (range, 3-8 points) one week after surgery, and 2.30±0.84 points (range, 1-5 points) at the last follow-up; in the open group, VAS for pelvic pain was 7.45±1.23 points (range, 5-9 points) before operation, 5.25±1.25 points (range, 3-8 points) one week after surgery, and 2.80±1.24 points (range, 1-6 points) at the last follow-up, the difference between the two groups was statistically significant ( F=162.18, P<0.001; F=70.18, P<0.001), the difference between the two groups was statistically significant 1 week after surgery ( t=3.37, P=0.001), and there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups before surgery and the last follow-up ( P>0.05). The Majeed score was 82.10±4.80 (range, 65-95) in the robot group, 77.60±5.40 (range, 70-93) in the open group at the last follow-up, there were statistical differences ( t=3.09, P=0.003). There was no wound complication in the robot group, there were 4 cases with wound infection or rupture in the open group. One LC-II screw loosen in the robot group, which needed reoperation with cement, there was also 1 screw of plate loosening in the open group with no reoperation. Conclusion:Robot-assisted screws fixation with minimally reduction based pelvic osseous pathways shows satisfactory clinical outcomes, satisfactory reduction, effective pain relief, and fewer postoperative complications in treatment of elderly FFP.

Imaging and clinical study on the relationship between abnormal development of the proximal sacrum and precise insertion of sacroiliac screws / 中华骨科杂志

Objective:To investigate the clinical efficacy of robot-assisted sacroiliac screw implantation in the treatment of proximal dysplasia sacral fractures.Methods:A retrospective analysis was conducted on 191 patients admitted to the Pelvic Department of Tianjin Hospital from May 2016 to January 2021 who underwent robot assisted sacroiliac screw implantation with sacral fractures, including 105 males and 86 females, aged 38.5±6.5 years (ranging from 19 to 69 years old). Among them, there were 85 patients with dysplasia of proximal sacrum. According to the classification of proximal sacral dysplasia, the patients were divided into five groups: the steep sacral alar slope group ( n=60), the mastoid protrusion group ( n=30), the lumbar sacralization group ( n=25), the sacral foramen oval degeneration group ( n=23) and the S 1 anterior cortical depression group ( n=10). The remaining 106 patients were normal group. Iliac cortical density (ICD) line typing was recorded in the 85 patients. The the completion of sacroiliac screw implantation, the Gras score of screw position after operation, the postoperative complications, the minimum diameter of S 1 screw channel (R1), the angle ∠A between the S 1 sacroiliac screw in the coronal plane and the cephalic side, and the angle ∠B between the S 1 sacroiliac screw in the water plane and the ventral side were recorded and compared with those of normal development patients. Results:The incidence of steep sacral alar slope was the highest (31.4%, 60/191). There were 2 or more developmental abnormalities in 24 cases. In 85 cases with dysplasia of proximal sacrum, ICD line type I was found in 8 cases, type II in 12 cases and type III in 65 cases. 49 patients (58.8%, 49/85) were able to complete the implantation of S 1 sacroiliac screw, while 36 patients (35.3%, 36/85) were only able to complete the implantation of S 2 sacroiliac screw. The Gras score of postoperative screw position was 90.05% for grade I, 9.94% for grade II, and 0 for grade III. In 1 case the sacroiliac screw pierced through the anterior cortex of the sacrum, and in 1 case the screw partially threaded into the sacral foramen, and there were no symptoms of iatrogenic nerve injury. The R1 values of the preoperative steep sacral alar slope group, the mastoid protrusion group, the sacral foramen oval degeneration group, the lumbar sacralization group, the sacral foramen oval degeneration group and normal development patient group were 11.4±3.0, 11.6±3.2, 9.8±3.0, 8.8±4.2, 6.5±4.4, and 11.4±3.4 mm, respectively. The differences between the lumbar sacralization group, the sacral foramen oval degeneration group, and the S1 anterior cortical depression group with the normal development patients were statistically significant, respectively ( t=-3.05, P=0.005; t=-2.32, P=0.022; t=-3.45, P=0.006). The postoperative angle ∠A of the above six groups were 33.8°±4.2°, 20.8°±3.5°, 25.8°±2.5°, 35.5°±4.5, 27.8°±3.5° and 26.8°±5.0°, respectively. The postoperative angle ∠B of the above six groups were 27.8°±3.5°, 36.2°±3°, 26.3°±1.8°, 29.8°±2.7°, 14.8°±1.5° and 37.2±4.2°, respectively. The differences between the ∠A of the steep sacral alar slope group, the mastoid protrusion group, and tthe lumbar sacralization group with that of the normal development patients were statistically significant, respectively ( t=9.17, -7.48, 7.97, P<0.001). The differences between the ∠B of the steep sacral alar slope group, the lumbar sacralization group, the sacral foramen oval degeneration group, and the S 1 anterior cortical depression group with that of the normal development patients were statistically significant, respectively ( t=-14.68, -10.93, -19.79, -35.8, P<0.001). Conclusion:This study proposes the "absolute stenosis" of the S 1 screw channel; In the treatment of patients with abnormal proximal sacral fracture, attention should be paid to S 1 anterior cortical depression and lumbar sacralization, and robot-assisted sacroiliac screw implantation can further improve the safety and accuracy of sacroiliac screw implantation.

Robot-assisted sacroiliac screw fixation to treat fragility fractures of the sacrum in the elderly / 中华骨科杂志

Objective:To evaluate the clinical outcome of Robot-assisted sacroiliac screw fixation in the treatment of fragility fracture of the sacrum in the elderly.Methods:From March 2016 to June 2022, a retrospective analysis was performed on 30 patients with fragility fractures of the sacrum in the elderly who accepted robot-assisted sacroiliac screw to treat fragility fractures of the sacrum in our hospital. There were 12 males and 18 females with average age 71.03±8.25 years (range, 60-89 years). According to the classification of fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFP) in the elderly, there were 22 patients with FFP II, 2 patients with FFP III, and 6 patients with FFP IV. Surgical planning was based on the average CT value of S 1 channel and whether there is a transsacral screw channel. Robot-assisted sacroiliac screw fixation was performed during surgery. The pain of pre-operation and post-operation was evaluated using the visual analogue scale (VAS), the position of sacroiliac screws was evaluated by Gras grading, and the degree of functional recovery after surgery was evaluated using the Majeed function score. Results:All 30 patients successfully completed the operation. The mean operation time was 27.00±6.68 min (range, 18-35 min), the mean fluoroscopy times were 27.13±5.16 (range, 18-34), and the mean blood loss was 30.53±6.61 ml (range, 23-38 ml). All patients were followed up, and the mean follow-up time was 19.03±7.8 months (range, 8-25 months). The VAS was 5(5, 6), 4(3, 4), 3(2, 3), 0(0, 1) points before surgery, 1 week, 2 months and 6 months after surgery, respectively, and the difference was statistically significant ( H=103.26, P<0.001). After the surgery of 2 months, 6 months and the last follow-up time, the Majeed function scores were 88(83, 90), 91(87, 92), 92(90, 93) points, respectively, and the difference was statistically significant ( H=19.59, P<0.001). Screw position was evaluated according to Gras grading at 3 days after surgery, including 28 cases of level I, 2 cases of level II, and no screw penetrated the cortical bone or entered the sacral canal or sacral foramen. No vascular or nerve injury occured during the operation. 28 patients with FFS met the fracture healing criteria, and the healing time was 4.54±1.57 months (range, 3-7 months). Two patients had bone nonunion, one of whom underwent anterior ring plate removal due to infection of the pelvic anterior wound, and one month later, pelvic CT scan revealed loosening of the sacroiliac screw; the other one is considered to be related to too early weight bearing. Conclusion:For fragility fractures of the sacrum in elderly, Robot-assisted sacroiliac screw is an effective minimally invasive treatment, with high accuracy of screw placement, effective pain reduction, improved fracture healing rate, and achieve the satisfactory clinical efficacy.

Treatment of transverse with posterior wall fractures of acetabulum using robot-aided percutaneous anterior column screw combined with posterior plate / 中华骨科杂志

Objective:To explore the effectiveness and safety of robot-aided percutaneous anterior column screw combined with posterior plate fixtation treatment for transverse acetabular fractures with posterior wall.Methods:A retrospective analysis was conducted on the data of 13 patients with transverse acetabular fractures and posterior wall fractures treated by robot-aided percutaneous anterior column screws combined with posterior plate in Tianjin Hospital from May 2016 to May 2021. There were 9 males and 4 females, aged 49.1±8.5 years (range, 25-65 years), 9 cases of vehicle accidents, 2 cases of falling injuries, 2 cases of impact injuries, 7 cases of combined posterior hip dislocations, and 1 case of sciatic nerve injury. Apply Kocher-Langenbeck approach for reduction and fixation of the posterior wall and the posterior column and indirect reduction of the anterior column. Use robot navigation for percutaneous anterior column screw fixation, and record the time of inserting anterior column screws, incision length, and complications. The quality of fracture reduction was evaluated using Matta imaging, and the degree of ectopic ossification was evaluated using Brooker classification. The Matta modified Postel Merle D'Aobigne score was used to evaluate the function at 3, 6 months after surgery and at the last follow-up.Results:All 13 patients successfully completed the surgery. The insertion time of the anterior column screw was 19.4±4.0 min (range, 17-23 min), and the incision length was 8.0±1.4 mm (range, 6-10 mm). Postoperative imaging examination showed that all anterior column screws were located within the bone canal, with a screw length of 108.3±11.2 mm (range, 90-130 mm), and no complications such as nerve or vascular injury or incision infection occurred. All 13 patients were followed up for a period of 12-36 months, with an average of 18.6 months; All fractures healed, with a healing time of 2-6 months, average 3.4 months. According to the Matta imaging evaluation method, 11 of 13 patients had anatomical reduction of fractures, and 2 were evaluated as incomplete reduction due to a 1-2 mm gap in the anterior column. The anatomical reduction rate was 84%. At postoperative 3, 6 months and the last follow-up, the modified Postel Merle D'Aobigne scores were 13.4±1.1, 15.8±1.5, and 17.0±1.7, respectively, with statistically significant differences ( F=7.78, P=0.007). The difference between the last follow-up and postoperative 3 months was statistically significant ( P=0.002), and there was no statistically significant difference compared to postoperative 6 months ( P=0.222). At the last follow-up, 8 cases were excellent, 4 cases were good, and 1 case was fair, with an excellent and good rate of 92%. There was no occurrence of ectopic ossification, traumatic arthritis, or necrosis of the femoral head. Conclusion:Robot-aided percutaneous anterior column screw combined with posterior plate treatment for transverse acetabular fractures with posterior wall is safe and effective, and is worthy of clinical promotion.

Comparison of short-term clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction between robotic-assisted and conventional total hip arthroplasty / 中华骨科杂志

Objective:To compare short-term clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction between robotic-assisted total hip arthroplasty (THA) and conventional THA.Methods:Patient data of unilateral primary THA with the same prosthesis by the same operator due to osteoarthritis, osteonecrosis of the femoral head, and other diseases in Peking University Third Hospital from September 2019 to February 2022 was retrospectively analyzed. Patients were divided into robot-assisted THA group and conventional THA group according to surgical methods. The preoperative general data, operation time, intraoperative complications and other intraoperative data were collected. Anteroposterior X-ray of pelvis and cross-table X-ray of hip were taken. Main outcome measures consisted of total blood loss, blood transfusion rate, hospitalization stay, postoperative complications, and the inclination and anteversion angle of the acetabular cup, while the dislocation rate outside the Lewinnek and Callanan safe zone was also analyzed. Other outcomes measures included visual analogue scale, Harris score, quality of life score (QOL) and satisfaction score.Results:There was no significant difference in gender, age, height, weight, body mass index (BMI), operation side, preoperative blood volume and Harris score between the two groups ( P>0.05); Loosening of positioning screws occurred in 2 patients due to osteoporosis in robot-assisted THA group, so conventional THA was performed. Therefore, 84 cases in robot-assisted THA group and 87 cases in conventional THA group were enrolled in this study at last. There was no significant difference in follow-up time between conventional THA group and robot-assisted THA group (19.7±6.8 months vs. 18.6±5.4 months, t=1.16, P=0.249); The operation time of robot-assisted THA group was longer than that of conventional THA group (106.99±31.91 min vs. 73.79±29.48 min, t=7.07, P<0.001), but there was no significant difference in hospitalization stay between conventional THA group and robot-assisted THA group (6.40±2.40 d vs. 6.49±1.95 d, t=0.26, P=0.796). There was also no significant difference in total blood loss and blood transfusion rate between the two groups ( P>0.05). There was no significant difference in inclination angle (38.79°±6.93° vs. 39.41°±3.01°, t=0.58, P=0.449) and anteversion angle (14.81°±6.49° vs. 13.33°±4.32°, t=3.06, P=0.082) between conventional THA group and robot-assisted THA group, while the percentage in Lewinnek safe zone (96.4% vs. 73.6%, χ 2=15.60, P<0.001) and Callanan safe zone (92.9% vs. 65.5%, χ 2=17.61, P<0.001) was significantly higher in conventional THA than that of robot-assisted THA. There were no significant differences in postoperative VAS, Harris score and QOL score between the two groups ( P>0.05), but the excellent and good rate of Harris score of conventional THA group was lower than that of robot-assisted THA group (83.91% vs. 95.24%, χ 2=5.83, P=0.016); The overall satisfaction of patients in robot-assisted THA group was better than that in conventional THA group ( Z=-3.47, P=0.001), and 95.2% (80/84) of patients in robot-assisted THA group were very satisfied, which was higher than that in conventional THA group (75.86%, 66/87). The satisfaction of patients in robot-assisted THA group on pain relief ( Z=-2.44, P=0.015) and improvement of leisure activity ( Z=-2.12, P=0.034) was better than that in conventional THA group, but there was no significant difference in the satisfaction of ability of doing house work between the two groups ( Z=-0.49, P=0.626). Conclusion:Compared with conventional THA, robot-assisted THA has longer operation time but better short-term clinical outcomes and higher patient satisfaction after surgery.

Application of minimally invasive ultrasonic osteotome in robotic-assisted sacral tumor resection / 中华骨科杂志

Sacral tumors are surgically challenging and at a high risk of complications. In recent years, robotic-assisted resection has been gradually applied in sacral tumors, but it is difficult to remove bone tissue by present robotic instruments, which limits the application of surgical robot in sacral tumor. The present study aimed to explore the application range and therapeutic effect of minimally invasive ultrasonic osteotome in robotic-assisted sacral tumor resection. Eighteen patients underwent robotic-assisted sacral tumor resection in the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University from May 2015 to March 2021 by the Da Vinci robotic surgical system. Among them three patients who underwent osteotomy with minimally invasive ultrasonic osteotome were enrolled. There were 2 males and 1 female, aged 24, 32, 71 years, respectively. The tumors included 2 schwannomas and 1 ganglioneuroma. The operation time, bleeding volume and postoperative hospitalization days were recorded. The recurrence and complications were evaluated during follow-up. The operative time of the 3 patients was 80, 240 and 300 minutes, and the intraoperative bleeding volume was 30, 30 and 100 ml. Complete resection was performed in 2 cases and intralesional resection in 1 case. The postoperative hospital stay was 5, 3 and 7 days respectively. The follow-up time was 58, 17 and 31 months respectively. No tumor recurrence was found during the follow-up. As regards complications, only one patient had left foot pain after operation, and there were no other intraoperative or postoperative complications. The therapeutic advantages of ultrasonic osteotome combined with the Da Vinci robotic surgical system can achieve precise osteotomy, reduce intraoperative bleeding and accelerate postoperative recovery for certain patients with sacral tumors.

Analysis of the application of orthopedic robot assisted technology in bone tumor surgery / 中华骨科杂志

Intellectualization and precision are important directions of development and research highlights of orthopaedic surgery at present. The orthopaedic robot-assisted technology is gradually applied to various orthopaedic specialties. However the application of robot-assisted technology in bone tumor surgery started relatively late and the scenarios suitable for clinical application are relatively limited. By searching PubMed, Embase, ScienceDirect, CNKI and Wanfang database about the application of orthopaedic robot-assisted technology in the field of bone tumor surgery, we analyzed its intelligence and precision requirements, sorted and analyzed the current clinical application of orthopaedic robot in bone tumor surgery. The robot-assisted puncture biopsy of bone tumor could improve the accuracy and positive rate, especially for tumors with small size, deep location and complex local anatomical structure. For robot-assisted precise osteotomy for bone tumors, the accuracy and error analysis of manual osteotomy and robot-assisted osteotomy in the literatures were compared. The robot-assisted technology has the potential to improve the accuracy of tumor resection at complex anatomical structures such as sacrum and pelvic tumors. For the application of robot-assisted technology in spinal tumor surgery, literature reports suggested that it can improve the accuracy of pedicle screw placement and the safety of minimally invasive vertebroplasty, and can be used for minimally invasive precise surgical resection of spinal tumors. At the same time, the existing problems and development directions were analyzed, such as cost-effectiveness, accuracy of registration, soft tissue recognition and feedback, error superposition and error correction, so as to provide reference basis for further clinical application and study.