Robotic total colectomy and ileorectal anastomosis.

The benefits of minimally invasive approaches in colorectal surgery have been well demonstrated. However, some hesitancy remains with regards to the utilization of the robotic platform for total colectomies, mostly due to the perceived need for multiple re-dockings in multiquadrant surgery. This video aims to demonstrate how the robotic platform can be efficiently utilized in multiquadrant surgery without the need for multiple re-dockings, as well as some tips on how to overcome the potential challenges that may be encountered during this procedure.

The long-term outcomes and prognostic factors about locally advanced right colon cancer: a retrospective cohort study.

Background: The first case of treatment with en bloc right hemicolectomy with pancreatoduodenectomy (RHCPD) for locally advanced right-sided colon cancer (LARCC) invading the pancreas, duodenum, or other organs, was reported in 1953 by Van Prohaska. Right-sided colon cancers invading the pancreas and duodenum are rare. Surgery can be technically challenging, with unclear oncologic consequences, hence there are few reports on the clinical outcomes and factors associated with survival in this patient cohort. The need for neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with LARCC is controversial, and the long-term survival of these patients as well as the preferred treatment regimen needs to be explored. This paper reports our experience in right hemicolectomy with en bloc resection for LARCC. We conducted this study to analyze the clinical features and surgical outcomes of LARCC. Methods: A retrospective study was performed using a database of all patients who underwent RHCPD due to the tumour directly invading the duodenum and/or pancreas in a 19-year period [2003-2022]. We included patients whose primary tumor site was the right hemicolon and who had undergone a negative tumor resection margin (R0) resection. In addition, the adhesions between the colon and other organs in these patients were malignant adhesions. The primary outcome was the overall survival after surgery. The secondary endpoints of the study included 30-day postoperative mortality, postoperative complications, prognostic factors, and tumour genetics. All patients were followed up with postoperative imaging at an interval of 3 months for the first 3 years and at an interval of 6 months for the next 2 years, and annual follow-up thereafter. Survival was estimated using Kaplan-Meier analysis. Variables with P values <0.05 in univariate analysis were entered into multivariate Cox proportional risk regression to identify independent predictors of survival. Results: There were 47 patients (23 males and 24 females) who underwent en bloc resection for LARCC. The median age of the patients was 61 years (range, 38-80 years). R0 resection was achieved in all cases. The overall complication rate was 27.7% (n=13). Two patients died within 30 days of surgery. The overall survival was 80.9%, 63.5%, and 51.7% at 1, 3, and 5 years, respectively. Univariate survival analysis identified pancreatic invasion, regional lymph node positivity, more than two organs invaded, and no neoadjuvant treatment as predictors of poor survival (log-rank P<0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that regional lymph node positivity [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.145-7.736; P=0.025] and more than two organs invaded (95% CI: 1.321-26.981; P=0.020) were predictors of poor survival. Conclusions: Relatively optimistic clinical outcomes from en bloc resection were demonstrated for patients with LARCC. For LARCC patients, en bloc resection can be carefully considered.

A narrative review of the Medtronic Hugo RAS and technical comparison with the Intuitive da Vinci robotic surgical system.

Medtronic launched the Hugo Robotic-Assisted Surgery (RAS) System in 2021, offering a modular alternative to the incumbent market leader in surgical robotics, the Intuitive da Vinci (dV) surgical system. A detailed technical review of the Hugo RAS was conducted to explore the strengths and weaknesses of this new robotic surgical system. Each component of the system-vision tower, arm cart, and surgeon console-was compared against the existing dV systems. The docking process, instrumentation, and external arm movement trajectories were analyzed. The modular Hugo RAS provides the possibility of operating using up to four arm carts. It has certain design features that are unique to itself, and others that have been implemented to address the shortcomings of the dV Si. While Medtronic's first-generation robot offers distinct advantages over the older Intuitive systems, the true test of its mettle will be its performance compared to the latest dV Xi.

Surgical considerations for the "perfect" colorectal anastomosis.

A technically sound colorectal anastomosis is paramount in optimising outcomes and reducing complications such as anastomotic leak which can lead to prolonged hospital stay, repeated operations, stoma formation, anastomotic stricture formation and even mortality in patients. Therefore, thorough consideration should be given to all aspects of its construct, from its basic mechanical configuration to subsequent evaluation of anastomosis integrity and perfusion. Risk factors for anastomotic leakage are well established and are usually classified into modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors. In this review article, we will focus on and discuss the modifiable surgical risk factors and how the authors incorporate latest evidence and surgical principles in creating a "perfect" colorectal anastomosis. We review the latest evidence on the proper mechanical construct of a colorectal anastomosis, enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS), high versus low ligation of inferior mesenteric artery (IMA), routine splenic flexure mobilisation (SFM), the use of indocyanine green (ICG), as well as methods used for the evaluation of the anastomosis integrity. New adjuncts described in the literature to reinforce anastomoses are also discussed. In summary, meticulous technique with nuanced refinements based on our understanding of surgical principles, together with the adoption of relevant new technologies, are essential in our strive towards the "perfect" colorectal anastomosis.

Robotic surgery in elderly patients with colorectal cancer: Review of the current literature.

With an ageing global population, we will see an increasing number of elderly patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) requiring surgery. However, it should be recognized that the elderly are a heterogenous group, with varying physiological and functional status. While traditionally viewed to be associated with frailty, comorbidities, and a higher risk of post operative morbidity, the advancements in minimally invasive surgery (MIS) and improvements in perioperative care have allowed CRC surgery to be safe and feasible in the elderly - chronological age alone should therefore not strictly be an exclusion criterion for curative surgery. However, as a form of MIS, laparoscopic assisted colorectal surgery (LACS) has the inherent disadvantages of: (1) Dependence on a trained assistant for retraction and laparoscope control; (2) The loss of wristed movement with reduced dexterity and suboptimal ergonomics; (3) A lack of intuitive movement due to the levering effect of trocars; and (4) An amplification of physiological tremors. Representing a technical evolution of LACS, robotic assisted colorectal surgery was introduced to overcome these limitations. In this minireview, we examine the evidence for robotic surgery in the elderly with CRC.

A comparison between the da Vinci Xi EndoWrist Stapler and a conventional laparoscopic stapler in rectal transection: A randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Distal rectal transection following robotic total mesorectal excision for rectal cancer is challenging. This can be performed with either a robotic stapler (RS) or laparoscopic stapler (LS). We compared the operative outcomes and ergonomic differences between RS and LS. METHODS: Forty patients with rectal cancer who were planned for robotic rectal surgery were randomized to either RS or LS. RESULTS: The mean number of stapler cartridges expended was similar between RS and LS (1.75 vs. 2.05, p = 0.082). Significantly less stapler adjustments were required in the RS group (1.55 vs. 2.75, p = 0.014). Results from the user experience survey showed that RS scored better. CONCLUSION: The RS required less adjustments and resulted in a better user experience. While this complemented the use of robotics in rectal surgery, it did not result in a significant reduction in the number of stapler cartridges required for rectal transection.

Current perspectives on the management of lateral pelvic lymph nodes in rectal cancer.

Significant controversies exist with regards to the optimal management of lateral pelvic lymph nodes metastases (mLLN) in patients with low rectal cancer. The differing views held by Japanese and Western clinicians on the management of mLLN have been well documented. However, the adequacy of pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) or neoadjuvant chemoradiation (NACRT) alone in addition to total mesorectal excision (TME) have recently come into question, due to the relatively high incidence of lateral local recurrences following PLND and TME, or NACRT and TME alone. Recently, a more selective approach to PLND has been suggested, involving a combination of neoadjuvant therapy, followed by PLND only to patients in whom the oncological benefit is likely to outweigh the risk of potential adverse events. A number of studies have attempted to retrospectively identify certain nodal characteristics on preoperative imaging, such as nodal size, appearance, and size reduction following neoadjuvant therapy. However, no consensus has been reached regarding the optimal criteria for a selective approach to PLND, partly due to the heterogeneity and retrospective nature of most of these studies. This review aims to provide an overview of recent evidence with regards to the diagnostic challenges, considerations for, and outcomes of the current management strategies for mLLN in rectal cancer patients.

Tips and tricks for robotic lateral pelvic node dissection.

Lateral pelvic node dissection can be challenging. In addition to detailed anatomical knowledge of the pelvic side wall, surgeons also need to be proficient in performing fine dissection within the confines of this limited operative field. While the incorporation of robotics can facilitate the safe completion of this technically demanding procedure, this is nonetheless dependent on the way the robotic system is used. This video aims to demonstrate several tips and tricks for performing robotic lateral pelvic node dissection.

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.

A novel method to objectively assess robotic assistance in laparoscopic colorectal surgery.

OBJECTIVE: An objective assessment of robotic assistance in colorectal surgery. BACKGROUND: There is a lack of objective evidence behind the claims of superior optics and improved ergonomics with robotics. This study introduces a novel method of assessing how robotics facilitates colorectal surgery. METHODS: Operative videos of laparoscopic and robotic surgeries were reviewed. Two components were evaluated-scope-holder performance was assessed using a transparent overlay to partition the video image and provide lines for measurement; assistant instrument performance was measured using a separate matrix of movement episodes and time. RESULTS: The views achieved in robotic surgery were superior and less dependent on the assistant. The degree of assistance provided by the robotic system was more than that of the human assistant. CONCLUSIONS: The use of robotics allows a trained operator to project his skills threefold-as a scope holder, operator and assistant-providing superior visualization and dynamic assistance throughout surgery.

Management of malignant colonic polyps.

With the implementation of colorectal cancer screening programs, there has been an increasing incidence of malignant colonic polyps (MP). The attending surgeon is often faced with the management dilemma of whether polypectomy can be considered adequate treatment or if formal oncological resection is required. While endoscopic therapy avoids the risks and morbidity of surgery, there is a potential trade-off of under-staging and inadequate treatment. Surgery, on the other hand confers the benefits of clear resection margins, nodal staging and the ability to prognosticate and guide the decision for adjuvant therapy. This article sets out to review the histopathologic prognostic factors of MP and the various management and surveillance strategies.

Minimally invasive surgery in the geriatric patient with colon cancer.

As the global population ages, the number of geriatric patients requiring surgery for colon cancer would inevitably increase. Radical oncological surgery in the elderly colorectal cancer patient has been recognized to be associated with a higher rate of postoperative complications and mortality compared to the young. While less aggressive management options may be reasonable in patients with limited life expectancy and significant comorbidities, many elderly patients have preserved function despite their chronological age. The advances in minimally invasive surgery (MIS) now provide a feasible means of achieving safe oncological treatment for these geriatric patients. This review focuses on the evidence behind MIS in the geriatric patient with colon cancer.

Short-term outcomes of minimally invasive surgery for patients presenting with suspected gallbladder cancer: Report of 8 cases.

Introduction: Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for gallbladder cancer (GBCa) has traditionally been discouraged, with limited studies reporting on its outcomes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the short-term outcomes of MIS for patients with GBCa or suspected GBCa. Methods: A retrospective study of 8 consecutive patients who underwent MIS for GBCa by a single surgeon over a 22-month period between 2015 and 2017. Results: Three patients underwent robotic surgery, while five underwent conventional laparoscopic surgery. Four patients presented with histologically proven GbCa detected incidentally after cholecystectomy. All 4 patients underwent resection of Segment 4b/5. Of these, 3 underwent hilar lymphadenectomy and 1 underwent hilar lymph node sampling. Four patients presenting with suspected GBCa underwent upfront extended cholecystectomy. Two patients who had malignancy on frozen section underwent hilar lymphadenectomy. The median operation time was 242.5 (range, 165-530) min, and the median blood loss was 175 (range, 50-700) ml. The median post-operative hospital stay was 3.5 (range, 2-8) days. There were no open conversion, post-operative morbidities and mortalities. Six had histologically proven GBCa. Five were T3 and one had T2 cancers. Conclusions: The results of the present study confirm the short-term safety and feasibility of MIS for patients with GBCa, as all eight patients underwent successful MIS with no major morbidity or mortality. Further studies with larger patient cohorts with long-term follow-up are needed to determine the oncologic outcomes and the definitive role of MIS in treating GBCa.