Robotic Versus Laparoscopic Hysterectomy for Benign Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Trials

Feasible Techniques Named "Pure" Robotic Simple Hysterectomy With 4 Robotic Arms "4+0" Mode for Hysterectomy in da Vinci Xi

INTRODUCTION

The three-arm approach is mainly selected, despite the multiple robotic arms in da Vinci Xi. This type of surgical setup may provide less autonomy to the console surgeon and result in greater dependence on the bedside surgical assistant. Therefore, the 4th arm is used instead of the assist port, which is why we developed "pure" robot simple hysterectomy (PRSH) as a novel surgical technique, in which all ports are operated by robotic arms.

MATERIALS AND SURGICAL TECHNIQUE

After pneumoperitoneum was established, trocars were inserted under visual control: three 8 mm robotic ports on the same horizontal line spaced 8 cm apart at the level of the endoscope port. The 2nd arm was used to insert the endoscope, and the fenestrated bipolar forceps in the 1st arm and Maryland bipolar forceps in the 3rd arm were operated using the double bipolar method. In this technique, the uterine manipulator is not used because the Cadiere forceps in the 4th arm manipulate the uterus. For suturing, the 3rd arm was equipped with a SutureCut needle driver from Maryland bipolar forceps, which enabled suturing and thread cutting. Suction and intra-abdominal transport of the needle was introduced into the abdominal cavity by pulling out the instrument in the 3rd arm. Hence, since all robotic arms are used for all ports, we named this technique "pure" robot simple hysterectomy.

DISCUSSION

The routine use of a fourth robotic arm "4+0" mode during PRSH provides the operating surgeon with greater independence during critical phases of the procedure without requiring a uterine manipulator and assistant.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

5043-03.

Inpatient Hospital Costs and Route of Hysterectomy for Management of Benign Uterine Disease in the 90-Day Global Billing Period

OBJECTIVE

To compare inpatient hospital costs and complication rates within the 90-day global billing period among routes of hysterectomy.

METHODS

The Premier Healthcare Database was used to identify patients who underwent hysterectomy between 2000 and 2020. Current Procedural Terminology codes were used to group patients based on route of hysterectomy. Comorbidities and complications were identified using International Classification of Diseases codes. Fixed, variable, and total costs for inpatient care were compared. Fixed costs consist of costs that are set for the case, such as operating room time or surgeon costs. Variable costs include disposable and reusable items that are billed additionally. Total costs equal fixed and variable costs combined. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance, t test, and χ 2 test, as appropriate. Factors independently associated with increased total costs were assessed using linear mixed effects models. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to evaluate associations between the route of surgery and complication rates.

RESULTS

A cohort of 400,977 patients were identified and grouped by route of hysterectomy. Vaginal hysterectomy demonstrated the lowest inpatient total cost ($6,524.00 [interquartile range $4,831.60, $8,785.70]), and robotic-assisted laparoscopic hysterectomy had the highest total cost ($9,386.80 [interquartile range $6,912.40, $12,506.90]). These differences persisted with fixed and variable costs. High-volume laparoscopic and robotic surgeons (more than 50 cases per year) had a decrease in the cost difference when compared with costs of vaginal hysterectomy. Abdominal hysterectomy had a higher rate of complications relative to vaginal hysterectomy (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.52, 95% CI, 1.39-1.67), whereas laparoscopic (aOR 0.85, 95% CI, 0.80-0.89) and robotic-assisted (aOR 0.92, 95% CI, 0.84-1.00) hysterectomy had lower rates of complications compared with vaginal hysterectomy.

CONCLUSION

Robotic-assisted hysterectomy is associated with higher surgical costs compared with other approaches, even when accounting for surgeon volume. Complication rates are low for minimally invasive surgery, and it is unlikely that the robotic-assisted approach provides an appreciable improvement in perioperative outcomes.

The new robotic system HUGO RAS for gynecologic surgery: First European experience from Gemelli Hospital

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the safety and feasibility of the new surgical robot HUGO robotic assisted surgery (RAS) in a series of gynecologic surgical procedures.

METHODS

Between March and October 2022, 138 patients treated at Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy were enrolled in the study. All patients suitable for a minimally-invasive approach were prospectively included and divided into two groups: Group 1 (78 patients) made up of patients operated on for uterine and/or adnexal pathologies, and Group 2 (60 patients) made up of patients treated for pelvic organ prolapse.

RESULTS

In Group 1, median docking time (DT) was 5 min and median console time (CT) was 90 min. In two patients (2.6%) redocking was necessary. In two patients (2.6%), the surgeon continued the surgery laparoscopically. Intraoperative complications occurred in two surgeries (2.6%). In Group 2, median DT was 4 min and median CT was 134.5 min. In three patients (5%), redocking was necessary. In all patients, the surgery was successfully completed robotically without intraoperative complications.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study demonstrates that the new HUGO RAS system for gynecologic surgery is safe with good results in terms of surgical efficacy and perioperative outcomes. Further studies are needed to investigate its use in other technical and surgical aspects.

ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Management of Uterine Fibroids: 2023 Update

Uterine fibroids are the most common benign tumor in women of reproductive age and can present with symptoms including bleeding, bulk related symptoms, and infertility. Several treatment options are available for the management of uterine fibroids, including medical management, minimally invasive therapies such as uterine artery embolization and MR-guided focused ultrasound ablation, and surgical interventions ranging from laparoscopic myomectomy to open hysterectomy. Given this wide range of therapeutic interventions, it is important to understand the data supporting these interventions and to be able to apply it in different clinical settings. This document provides a summary of recent trials supporting various therapies for uterine fibroids, including recent evidence for MR-guided focused ultrasound ablation and a detailed discussion of fertility outcomes in myomectomy and uterine fibroid embolization. The American College of Radiology Appropriateness Criteria are evidence-based guidelines for specific clinical conditions that are reviewed annually by a multidisciplinary expert panel. The guideline development and revision process support the systematic analysis of the medical literature from peer reviewed journals. Established methodology principles such as Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation or GRADE are adapted to evaluate the evidence. The RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method User Manual provides the methodology to determine the appropriateness of imaging and treatment procedures for specific clinical scenarios. In those instances where peer reviewed literature is lacking or equivocal, experts may be the primary evidentiary source available to formulate a recommendation.

Global research hotspots and trends on robotic surgery in obstetrics and gynecology: a bibliometric analysis based on VOSviewer

Objective

Over the last two decades, the quantity of papers published in relation to robotic surgery in obstetrics and gynecology has continued to grow globally. However, no bibliometric analysis based on VOSviewer has been performed to evaluate the past and present of global research in the field. In this study, we aimed to analyze the bibliometric characteristics of papers on robotic surgery in obstetrics and gynecology to reveal research hotspots and trends in this field.

Methods

The Web of Science Core Collection was searched for scientific papers on robotic surgery in obstetrics and gynecology published between January 1, 1998 and December 31, 2023. Bibliometric metadata of each selected paper was extracted for analysis. The results were visualized by VOSviewer (version 1.6.18).

Results

A total of 1,430 papers met the inclusion criteria. The United States had the highest total link strengths and contributed the most papers (n = 793). The Mayo Clinic produced the largest number of papers (n = 85), and Professor Pedro T Ramirez contributed the most papers (n = 36). The number of citations ranged from 0 to 295 with a total sum of 29,103. The Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology published the most relevant papers (n = 252). Keywords were classified into six clusters based on co-occurrence data, of which cluster 1, cluster 4 and cluster 6 had more main keywords with the largest average publication year.

Conclusions

This is the first VOSviewer-based bibliometric analysis of robotic surgery research in obstetrics and gynecology. The United States was the leading country, and the Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology was the most productive journal in the field. Scientists and institutions from around the world should push their boundaries to bring about deep collaboration. The main research topic has always been the use of robotic surgery in the treatment of gynecologic malignancies. More randomized controlled trials need to be conducted to compare surgical outcomes of robotic surgery with other surgical approaches. Robotic sacrocolpopexy for pelvic organ prolapse has become a new research hotspot, and robotic surgery for sentinel lymph node detection in gynecologic malignancies are more potential directions for future research.

Prospective cohort study investigating quality of life outcomes following multi-speciality robotic-assisted surgery

INTRODUCTION

Despite recent evidence on the surgical outcomes of robotic-assisted surgery (RAS), other patient centre outcomes, including quality of life (QOL), are lacking. This study aims to examine changes in QoL trajectories following RAS across different surgical specialities.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A prospective cohort study was conducted for patients undergoing urologic, cardiothoracic, colorectal or benign gynaecological RAS, between June 2016 and January 2020 at a tertiary referral hospital in Australia. QoL was measured using the 36-item Short-Form Health Survey at pre-operative, 6 weeks and 6 months postoperatively. Physical and mental summary scores and utility index were primary outcomes, and sub-domains were secondary outcomes.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED

Mixed-effects linear regressions were used to determine changes in QoL trajectories.

RESULTS

Of the 254 patients undergoing RAS, 154 underwent urologic, 36 cardiothoracic, 24 colorectal and 40 benign gynaecological surgery. Overall, the average age was 58.8 years and most patients were male (75.1%). Physical summary scores significantly decreased from pre-operative to 6 weeks' post-operative in urologic and colorectal RAS; with all surgical specialities at least returning to pre-operative levels within 6 months postoperatively. Mental summary scores consistently increased from pre-operative to 6 months postoperatively for colorectal and gynaecological RAS.

CONCLUSIONS

RAS contributed to positive changes in QoL, with physical health returning to the pre-operative level and mental health improvements across specialities, in the short term. While degrees of post-operative changes varied amongst specialities, significant improvements demonstrate benefits in RAS.

Expanding Robotic-Assisted Surgery in Gynecology Using the Potential of an Advanced Robotic System

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) in gynecology was introduced to achieve the same surgical objectives as traditional open surgery while minimizing trauma to surrounding tissues, reducing pain, accelerating recovery, and improving overall patient outcomes. Minimally invasive approaches, such as laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgeries, have become the standard for many gynecological procedures. In this review, we aim to summarize the advantages and main limitations to a broader adoption of robotic-assisted surgery compared to laparoscopic surgeries in gynecology. We present a new surgical system, the Dexter Robotic System™ (Distalmotion, Switzerland), that facilitates the transition from laparoscopy expertise to robotic-assisted surgery.

Robotic-assisted benign hysterectomy compared with laparoscopic, vaginal, and open surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

The potential benefits and limitations of benign hysterectomy surgical approaches are still debated. We aimed at evaluating any differences with a systematic review and meta-analysis. PubMed, MEDLINE, and EMBASE databases were last searched on 6/2/2021 to identify English randomized controlled trials (RCTs), prospective cohort and retrospective independent database studies published between Jan 1, 2010 and Dec 31, 2020 reporting perioperative outcomes following robotic hysterectomy versus laparoscopic, open, or vaginal approach (PROSPERO #CRD42022352718). Twenty-four articles were included that reported on 110,306 robotic, 262,715 laparoscopic, 189,237 vaginal, and 554,407 open patients. The robotic approach was associated with a shorter hospital stay (p < 0.00001), less blood loss (p = 0.009), and fewer complications (OR: 0.42 [0.27, 0.66], p = 0.0001) when compared to the open approach. The main benefit compared to the laparoscopic and vaginal approaches was a shorter hospital (R/L WMD: - 0.144 [- 0.21, - 0.08], p < 0.0001; R/V WMD: - 0.39 [- 0.70, - 0.08], p = 0.01). Other benefits seen were sensitive to the inclusion of database studies. Study type differences in outcomes, a lack of RCTs for robotic vs. open comparisons, learning curve issues, and limited robotic vs. vaginal publications are limitations. While the robotic approach was mainly comparable to the laparoscopic approach, this meta-analysis confirms the classic benefits of minimally invasive surgery when comparing robotic hysterectomy to open surgery. We also reported the advantages of robotic surgery over vaginal surgery in a patient population with a higher incidence of large uterus and prior surgery.

The new surgical robot Hugo™ RAS for total hysterectomy: a pilot study

Background

With the rising popularity of robotic surgery, Hugo™ RAS is one of the newest surgical robotic platforms. Investigating the reliability of this tool is the first step toward validating its use in clinical practice; and presently there arelimited data available regarding this. The literature is constantly enriched with initial experiences, however no study has demonstrated the safety of this platform yet.

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate its reliability during total hysterectomy.

Materials and Methods

A series of 20 consecutive patients scheduled for minimally invasive total hysterectomy with or without salpingo-oophorectomy for benign disease or prophylactic surgery were selected to undergo surgery with Hugo™ RAS. Data regarding any malfunction or breakdown of the robotic system as well as intra- and post-operative complications were prospectively recorded.

Results

Fifteen of the twenty patients (75.0%) underwent surgery for benign uterine diseases, and five (25.0%) underwent prophylactic surgery. Among the entire series, an instrument fault occurred in one case (5.0%). The problem was solved in 4.8 minutes and without complications for the patient. The median total operative time was 127 min (range, 98-255 min). The median estimated blood loss was 50 mL (range:30-125 mL). No intraoperative complications were observed. One patient (5.0%) developed Clavien-Dindo grade 2 post-operative complication.

Conclusions

In this pilot study, Hugo™ RAS showed high reliability, similar to other robotic devices.

What is new?

Present findings suggest that Hugo™ RAS is a viable option for major surgical procedures and deserves further investigation in clinical practice.

Robotic surgery in Gynecology: the present and the future

Since its introduction, laparoscopic surgery has been often preferred over open surgery in obstetrics and gynecology due to its advantages, such as less bleeding, lower incidence of adhesions, reduced postoperative pain, short hospital stay, and quick return to daily life. However, in the case of complex surgeries, laparoscopy presented some limitations. Nonetheless, since the 1980s, medical robots have been introduced to overcome the technical limitations of laparoscopy and start a new age for minimally invasive surgery. In this review, we explore the indications and advantages and disadvantages of robotic surgery in the field of gynecology, and try to assess the recent trend of robotic surgery.

Comparison of surgical outcomes between robot-assisted laparoscopic hysterectomy and conventional total laparoscopic hysterectomy in gynecologic benign disease: a single-center cohort study

We compared the surgical outcomes of robot-assisted laparoscopic hysterectomy (RAH) and total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH). This single-center cohort study compared 139 RAH cases from January, 2017 to September, 2021 and 291 TLH cases between January, 2015 and December, 2020. We retrospectively evaluated surgical outcomes, including total operative time (defined as the time from port wound incision to port wound closure), net operative time (defined as the time from the start of pneumoperitoneum to the end of pneumoperitoneum), estimated blood loss, weight of excised uterus (±adnexa), and overall complications, and the relationship between surgeon experience and operative time, net operative time, and blood loss in RAH and TLH. There was no significant difference in the total operative time between the two groups. Regardless of surgeon experience, the net operative time was significantly shorter in the RAH group than in the TLH group (p <0.001) and the estimated blood loss was significantly lower in RAH cases than in TLH cases (p = 0.01). The net operative time per uterine weight was shorter in the TLH group than that in the RAH group; however, there was no significant difference. RAH resulted in statistically better surgical outcomes in terms of net operative time and blood loss, regardless of surgeon experience. However, net operative time and blood loss also seem to be significantly affected by uterus weight. Large trials are imperative to determine the more effective surgical approach between RAH and TLH for different patient subsets.

Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of laparoscopic radical hysterectomy vs. Robotic assisted radical hysterectomy for early stage cervical cancer

OBJECTIVE

Following compelling evidence that open techniques may be related to better survival and disease free survival rates, many gynecologic oncologists in the US have turned away from performing laparoscopic radical hysterectomy (LRH) and robotic radical hysterectomy (RRH) for the treatment of early-stage cervical cancer. While this may be warranted as a safety concern, there is little high-quality data on the head-to-head comparison of LRH and RRH and therefore little evidence to answer the question of where this decrease in patient survival is originating from. In our systematic review, we aimed to compare the complications and outcomes of LRH against those of RRH.

DATA SOURCES

We searched PubMed, Cochrane CENTRAL, Medline, ClinicalTrials.Gov, SCOPUS, and Web of Science from database inception until February 1st, 2022.

METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION

A total of 676 studies were identified and screened through a manual three-step process. Ultimately 33 studies were included in our final analysis. We included all studies that compared LRH and RRH and included at least one of our selected outcomes. We included retrospective cohorts, prospective cohorts, case-control, and randomized clinical trials.

TABULATION, INTEGRATION, AND RESULTS

Data was independently extracted manually by multiple observers and the analysis was performed using Review Manager Software. PRISMA guidelines were followed. We analyzed homogenous data using a fixed-effects model, while a random-effects model was used for heterogeneous outcomes. We found that following RRH, women had a decreased hospital stay (MD = 0.80[0.38,1.21],(P < 0.002). We found no differences in estimated blood loss (MD = 35.24[-0.40,70.89],(P = 0.05), blood transfusion rate ((OR = 1.32[0.86,2.02],(P = 0.20), rate of post-operative complications (OR = 0.84[0.60,1.17],(P = 0.30), the operative time (MD = 6.01[-4.64,16.66],(P = 0.27), number of resected lymph node (MD = -1.22[-3.28,0.84],(P = 0.25) intraoperative complications (OR = 0.78[0.51,1.19],(P = 0.25), five-year overall survival (OR = 1.37[0.51,3.69],(P = 0.53), lifetime disease free survival (OR = 0.89[0.59,1.32],(P = 0.55), intraoperative and postoperative mortality (within 30 days) (OR = 1.30[0.66,2.54],(P = 0.44), and recurrence (OR = 1.14[0.79,1.64],(P = 0.50).

CONCLUSIONS

RRH seems to result in the patient leaving the hospital sooner after surgery. We were unable to find any differences in our ten other outcomes related to complications or efficacy. These findings suggest that the decreased survival seen in minimally invasive RH in previous studies could be due to factors inherent to both LRH and RRH.

PROSPERO PROSPECTIVE REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42022273727.

Trends in surgical approach to hysterectomy and perioperative outcomes in Michigan hospitals from 2010 through 2020

The objective of this study was to determine the trends in surgical approach to hysterectomy over the last decade and compare perioperative outcomes and complications. This retrospective cohort study used clinical registry data from the Michigan Hospitals that participated in Michigan Surgical Quality Collaborative (MSQC) from January 1st, 2010 through December 30th, 2020. A multigroup time series analysis was performed to determine how surgical approach to hysterectomy [open/TAH, laparoscopic (TLH/LAVH), and robotic-assisted (RA)] has changed over the last decade. Abnormal uterine bleeding, uterine fibroids, chronic pelvic pain, pelvic organ prolapse, endometriosis, pelvic mass, and endometrial cancer were the most common indications for hysterectomy. The open approach to hysterectomy declined from 32.6 to 16.9%, a 1.9-fold decrease, with an average decline of 1.6% per year (95% CI - 2.3 to - 0.9%). Laparoscopic-assisted hysterectomies decreased from 27.2 to 23.8%, a 1.5-fold decrease, with an average decrease of 0.1% per year (95% CI - 0.7 to 0.6%). Finally, the robotic-assisted approach increased from 38.3 to 49.3%, a 1.25-fold increase, with an average of 1.1% per year (95% CI 0.5 to 1.7%). For malignant cases, open procedures decreased from 71.4 to 26.6%, a 2.7-fold decrease, while RA-hysterectomy increased from 19.0 to 58.7%, a 3.1-fold increase. After controlling for the confounding variables age, race, and gynecologic malignancy, RA hysterectomy was found to have the lowest rate of complications when compared to the vaginal, laparoscopic and open approaches. Finally, after controlling for uterine weight, black patients were twice as likely to undergo an open hysterectomy compared to white patients.

Comparison of quality of life after robotic-transvaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery and robot-assisted laparoscopic hysterectomy

OBJECTIVES

We investigated quality of life (QOL) of patients who underwent total hysterectomy for benign uterine diseases using two surgical approaches: robotic-transvaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (R-vNOTES) and robot-assisted laparoscopic hysterectomy (RALH).

STUDY DESIGN

This single-center retrospective study was conducted in a tertiary academic setting and included 65 patients who underwent robotic-assisted hysterectomy for benign uterine diseases. Total hysterectomy was performed using R-vNOTES or RALH by the same gynecologist between December 2021 and June 2022. The primary outcome was a comparison of QOL over time and complete QOL recovery (postoperative QOL score/preoperative QOL score ≥ 1) by postoperative day 28 (POD28) in the R-vNOTES and RALH groups. QOL was examined using EQ-5D-5L in this study. The secondary outcome was a comparison of the surgical outcomes in the R-vNOTES and RALH groups.

RESULTS

Complete QOL recovery was achieved by 62.7% in the R-vNOTES group and 7.3% in the RALH group at POD7 (p <.001) and by 100% in the R-vNOTES group and 56.1％ in the RALH group at POD28 (p <.001). In a multivariable model, patients who underwent R-vNOTES achieved higher complete QOL recovery at POD 28 [adjusted hazard ratio: 4.03, 95% confidence interval: 2.03-8.04]. There was no significant difference between the R-vNOTES and RALH groups in terms of operating time (p =.07), intraoperative blood loss (p =.35), uterus weight (p =.76), or postoperative complications (p =.71).

CONCLUSION

The R-vNOTES approach for total hysterectomy for benign uterine diseases provided better complete QOL recovery by POD28 compared to the RALH approach. The surgical outcomes for R-vNOTES were equivalent to those for RALH, suggesting that R-vNOTES may provide a safe approach for robot-assisted hysterectomy.

Economic evaluation of robotic and laparoscopic paraesophageal hernia repair

BACKGROUND

Robotic approach in paraesophageal hernia (PEH) repair may improve outcomes over laparoscopic approach, though at additional cost. This study aimed to compare cost-effectiveness of robotic and laparoscopic PEH repair.

METHODS

A decision tree was created analyzing cost-effectiveness of robotic and laparoscopic PEH repair. Costs were obtained from 2021 Medicare data and were accumulated within 60 months after surgery. Effectiveness was measured in quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs). Branch-point probabilities and costs of robotic surgery consumables were obtained from published literature. The primary outcome of interest was incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER). One-way, two-way, and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed. A secondary analysis including attributable capital and maintenance costs of robotic surgery was conducted as well.

RESULTS

Laparoscopic repair yielded 3.660 QALYs at $35,843.82. Robotic repair yielded 3.661 QALYs at $36,342.57, with an ICER of $779,488.62/QALY. Robotic repair was favored when rates of open conversion and symptom recurrence were low, or with reduced cost of robotic instruments. A probabilistic sensitivity analysis favored laparoscopic repair in 100% of simulations. When accounting for costs of robotic technology, robotic approach was preferred only in unrealistic clinical scenarios.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic repair is likely more cost-effective for most institutions, though results were relatively similar. With experienced surgeons who surpass the initial learning curve, robotic surgery may improve outcomes enough to be cost-effective, but only when excluding capital and maintenance fees.

Robotic Hysterectomy with Ureter Identification and Uterine Artery Ligation for Benign Gynecological Conditions: An Early-Year Single-Center Experience

The use and application of robotic systems with a high-definition, three-dimensional vision system and advanced EndoWrist technology have become widespread. We sought to share our clinical experience with ureter identification and preventive uterine artery ligation in robotic hysterectomy. The records of patients undergoing robotic hysterectomy between May 2014 and December 2015, including patient preoperative characteristics, operative time, and postoperative outcomes, were analyzed. We evaluated the feasibility and safety of using early ureteral identification and preventive uterine artery ligation in robotic hysterectomy in patients with benign gynecological conditions. Overall, 49 patients diagnosed with benign gynecological conditions were evaluated. The mean age of the patients and mean uterine weight were 46.2 ± 5.3 years and 348.7 ± 311.8 g, respectively. Robotic hysterectomy achieved satisfactory results, including a short postoperative hospital stay (2.7 ± 0.8 days), low conversion rate (n = 0), and low complication rate (n = 1; 2%). The average estimated blood loss was 109 ± 107.2 mL. Our results suggest that robotic hysterectomy using early ureteral identification and preventive uterine artery ligation is feasible and safe in patients with benign gynecological conditions.

Hysterectomy in benign conditions: a 20-year single-center retrospective on the development of surgical techniques

INTRODUCTION

Minimally invasive (MI) surgery has long been established as a standard for hysterectomy in benign conditions. Robotic surgery is generally seen as equivalent to conventional laparoscopy in terms of patient outcome. However, robotics might facilitate an MI approach even in complex patients, rendering laparotomy unnecessary for almost all patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We identified 1939 patients who underwent hysterectomy for benign conditions between 2002 and 2020 at the University Hospital of Essen. Peri- and postoperative data as well as patient characteristics were collected retrospectively.

RESULTS

Robotic surgery, implemented at our institution in 2010, was the most common approach (n = 771; 39.8%). 60.2% of all hysterectomies (1168/1938) were performed using MI techniques. However, there was a significant shift in the methods used for hysterectomy over time. While in 2002 51.4% of all hysterectomies were performed via an open abdominal approach, this percentage dropped to 1.4% in the year 2020. Accordingly, the use of MI approaches increased from 18.9% in 2002 to 98.6% in 2020. The introduction of robotic surgery in 2010 marked a significant shift towards more MI procedures. MI surgery resulted in shorter hospital stay and less postoperative complications compared to laparotomy. On a special note, our cohort includes the largest uterus myomatous uterus in the scientific literature with a specimen weight of 54.8 kg.

CONCLUSION

Our data support the hypothesis that the implementation of robotic surgery leads to an improved capability to perform MI surgery and avoid laparotomy in almost all patients. The known benefits of MI surgery could be confirmed.

Robotic Single-Site Hysterectomy in Gynecologic Benign Pathology: A Systematic Review of the Literature

Background and objectives: Total hysterectomy is one of the most common gynecologic surgical procedures and it is mainly performed for benign pathologies. The introduction of robotic single-site surgery (RSS) as an acceptable alternative to laparoendoscopic surgery combines the advantages of robotics with the aesthetic result of a single incision. This study aims to review the existing literature on a single-site robotic hysterectomy in patients with benign pathologies and verify its safety and feasibility. Materials and Methods: Following the recommendations in the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) statement, FP and AR systematically screened the PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases. No temporal or geographical limitation was discriminatory. Studies containing data about feasibility and safety were included. Results: From 219, only eight studies met the inclusion criteria, and a total of 212 patients were included with a mean patient age of 45.42 years old (range 28-49.5 years old) and a mean BMI of 25.74 kg/m² (range 22-28.5 kg/m²). The mean presurgical time, including port placement and docking time, was 15.56 (range 3-30) minutes. Mean console time was reported in six studies and is 83.21 min (range 25-180 min). The mean operative time is 136.6 min (range 60-294 min) and the mean blood loss is 43.68 mL (range 15-300 mL). Only two patients in the total analyzed had intraoperative complications and no conversion to LPT occurred. The median hospital stay was 1.71 days (range 0.96-3.5 days). The postoperative complication rate was estimated at 1.4% (vaginal bleeding). Conclusions: Our review supports the safety and feasibility of robotic single-site hysterectomy for benign gynecological diseases.

Comparison between Robotic Single-Site and Laparoendoscopic Single-Site Hysterectomy: Multicentric Analysis of Surgical Outcomes

Background and Objectives: Minimally invasive surgery, especially the single-site approach, has demonstrated several advantages in the gynaecological setting. The aim of this study was to compare the surgical outcomes of single-site hysterectomy for benign conditions between the traditional laparoendoscopic approach and robotic surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We consecutively enrolled 278 women between 2012 and 2019 in this multicentre trial. The patients underwent robotic single-site hysterectomy (RSSH) or laparoendoscopic single-site hysterectomy (LESSH) procedures with or without salpingo-oophorectomy for benign indications. Surgical parameters and surgical outcomes were analysed.

RESULTS

There was a statistical difference between the two surgical techniques for total operative time (p = 0.001), set-up time (p = 0.013), and anaesthesia time (p = 0.001). Significant differences in intraoperative blood loss were observed (p = 0.001), but no differences were shown for blood transfusion or intraoperative or postoperative complications in the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

LESSH outperformed RSSH in terms of surgical performance and clinical outcomes, with no differences in adverse events.

Does the experience of the first assistant affect organ injuries in laparoscopic hysterectomy for benign diseases?

PURPOSE

This study sought to explore whether the experience level of the first assistant surgeon influences perioperative organ injuries (ureteral, bladder, and intestinal injuries) in patients undergoing total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH) for benign diseases. We defined an experienced surgeon as a surgeon certified by the Skill Qualification Committee of the Japan Society of Gynecologic and Obstetric Endoscopy and Minimally Invasive Therapy or a surgeon with equivalent surgical skills.

METHODS

We reviewed our surgical registry database of TLH for benign indications between 2014 and 2020 and only selected cases performed by an experienced primary surgeon. Patients were divided into two groups based on the experience level of the first assistant. Inverse probability of treatment weighting by propensity score, which was adjusted for patient and procedure characteristics, was used to examine differences in perioperative organ injuries according to the experience level of the first assistant.

RESULTS

Among 1682 patients who underwent TLH, 18 organ injuries were found (0.83%). In the propensity score inverse probability of treatment weighting models, less experience of the first assistant had no significant impact on the occurrence of perioperative organ injuries (p = 0.348).

CONCLUSION

In TLH for benign indications at our hospital, given an experienced primary surgeon, the inclusion of a less experienced first assistant does not negatively affect the occurrence of perioperative organ injuries.

Comparison of total intravenous anesthesia and inhalation anesthesia on postoperative quality of recovery after laparoscopic hysterectomy: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Postoperative recovery is a complex process and affected mainly by factors from patients, surgery and anesthesia. Although we have all kinds of sedatives and hypnotics now, the selection of an ideal medication for general anesthesia is still challenging. In this study, we perform a protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis to compare the effect of propofol-based total intravenous anesthesia and sevoflurane-based inhalation anesthesia on postoperative quality of recovery in patients undergoing laparoscopic hysterectomy.

METHODS

The protocol of this review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022379485). Meanwhile, it will be reported follow the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocol. We will search 3 foreign electronic databases (Cochrane Library, Embase, Pubmed) and 4 Chinese electronic databases (China National Knowledge Infrastructure, WangFang Database, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database and Chinese Scientific Journal Database) to collect potential studies from their inceptions to December 2022. Only randomized controlled trials will be included. Two reviewers will independently perform study selection, data extraction and risk of bias assessment. Data synthesis and statistical analysis will be performed using the RevMan 5.4 (The Cochrane Collaboration, Copenhagen, Denmark) software.

RESULTS

The results of this systematic review and meta-analysis will be publicly available and published in a peer-reviewed journal.

CONCLUSION

This study may provide the evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of total intravenous anesthesia and inhalation anesthesia on postoperative quality of recovery after laparoscopic hysterectomy.

Risk Assessment Model for Complications in Minimally Invasive Hysterectomy: A Pilot Study

Objective: To estimate the rate of intra-operative and postoperative complications, and to define the risk of 30-day major postoperative complications (Clavien-Dindo > 2) according to the presence of one of 10 different variables of minimally invasive (MI) hysterectomy; and then to create a risk assessment model easily applicable in clinical practice. Methods: A single center single arm retrolective study. Data of consecutive patients who have undergone MI hysterectomy for gynaecologic disorders between May 2018 and April 2021 were analyzed. Perioperative surgical outcomes, occurrence of intra- and postoperative complications, and readmissions within 30 days from surgery were registered. Univariate and multivariable analyses were performed to determine the factors associated with major postoperative complications. Results: Over the study period, 445 patients were included in the study. The majority of patients developed a minor event, while major complications (grade III) were required in 14 patients. None of the patients showed a grade IV or V complication. Univariate analysis was performed on patients who had developed intra- or postoperative complications from those who did not experience complications. Body mass index (BMI) (p-value 0.045) and surgeon’s experience (p-value 0.015) were found to be associated with a different surgery time. Regarding major postoperative complications, a statistically significant association was found for the variables: BMI (p-value 0.006), previous abdominal surgery (p-value 0.015), and surgeon’s experience (p-value 0.035) in the univariate analysis. Also in the multivariate analysis, the risk of major postoperative complications was higher in these three different variables. BMI, previous surgery, and surgeon’s experience were inserted in a reproducible risk assessment model in order to stratify the risk of major postoperative complications. Conclusions: We proposed a risk assessment model including factors not previously considered in the literature: the standardization of the surgical technique, the surgeon’s experience, the best MI approach (laparoscopy or robot-assisted), and previous abdominal surgery are crucial tools to consider. Further prospective studies with a larger population sample are needed to validate these preliminary evaluations for patients undergoing MI hysterectomy.

Accordion: A Useful and Workable Classification of Complications After Breast Reconstructive Surgery

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate whether Accordion Severity Grading System can serve as a tool for classification, and severity assessment in reporting postoperative complications after breast reconstructive surgery. Methods: A retrospective analysis covered 88 breast reconstruction surgeries following mastectomy and prophylactic breast amputation with simultaneous reconstruction conducted from January 2015 to December 2017. All registered postoperative complications were evaluated using the Accordion Severity Grading System. The time horizon selected was 6 weeks after surgery. Results: Eighty-two adverse events which met the criteria for complications according to the Accordion classification were observed in 53.4% (n = 47) of the patients. The highest percentage of complications was observed in the group where reconstruction involved using autologous tissues (pedicled transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous), which were associated with 77.4% risk of complications. In patients with combined methods (latissimus dorsi + prosthesis), complications occurred in half of the cases (51.4%). In patients who underwent reconstructive procedures with artificial materials (expander/prosthesis), complications occurred in 20% of cases. A high γ correlation coefficient of 0.7 (P < .001) was observed between the Accordion degree assigned to the patient and the length of hospital stay. A moderately strong correlation was found between the degree of Accordion system and rehospitalization rate (r = 0.54; P < .0001) and cost of hospital care (r = 0.65; P < .001). Discussion: Based upon the presented study, Accordion Severity Grading System is a workable, intuitive and universal scale for classifying and assessing the severity of postoperative complications and may be recommended for documenting complications in breast reconstructive procedures.

Early evaluation of a next-generation surgical system in robot-assisted total laparoscopic hysterectomy: A prospective clinical cohort study

INTRODUCTION

This study aimed to demonstrate the safe and effective use of the Versius surgical system (CMR Surgical, Cambridge, UK) in robot-assisted total laparoscopic hysterectomy. This surgical robot was developed iteratively with input from surgeons to improve surgical outcomes and end-user experience. We report data from the gynecology cohort of an early clinical trial designed in broad alignment with IDEAL-D (Idea, Development, Exploration, Assessment, Long-term follow-up - Devices) stage 2b (Exploration).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study is registered in the Indian clinical trials register (CTRI/2019/02/017872). Adult women requiring total hysterectomy who provided informed consent and met the eligibility criteria underwent procedures at one of three hospitals in India. Five surgeons performed robot-assisted total laparoscopic hysterectomies using the device from March 2019 to September 2020. The primary endpoint was rate of unplanned conversion to conventional laparoscopic or open surgery. Adverse events were adjudicated by an independent clinical events committee using endoscope video recordings and clinical notes.

RESULTS

In total, 144 women underwent surgery (median age: 44 years [range: 28-78]; median body mass index 25.8 kg/m² [range: 14.3-47.8]). The rate of unplanned conversion to conventional laparoscopy was 2/144 (1.4%); neither conversion was device related. No surgery was converted to open. In total, 13 adverse events occurred among seven (4.9%) patients, comprising seven serious adverse events and six adverse events. One serious adverse event was deemed device-related. Two patients were readmitted to hospital within 30 days; both made a full recovery. No patients died within 90 days of surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

The device provides a safe and effective option for total laparoscopic hysterectomy; these findings support its continued implementation in larger patient cohorts and expansion in other major minimal access indications.

Effect of Psychological Intervention on Pelvic Floor Function and Psychological Outcomes After Hysterectomy

Background

Hysterectomy is one of the most frequently performed operations worldwide. However, postoperative complications and body image changes may induce psychological distress after hysterectomy. The study aimed to evaluate the effect of psychological intervention on pelvic floor function and psychological outcomes following hysterectomy among patients with benign indications.

Methods

Ninety-nine patients underwent hysterectomy were randomly divided into intervention group (n = 50) and control group (n = 49). Patients in the control group received routine postoperative nursing care, while extra psychological intervention was provided to patients in the intervention group, including psychological support, regular lectures and family support. After 6 months, patient's psychological statuses were assessed by Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD-7) and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). The pelvic floor function of patients was evaluated using Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire (PFIQ-7) and Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire (PISQ-12). Furthermore, the incidence of postoperative complications, including uracratia, pelvic organ prolapses, sexual dysfunction and chronic pelvic pain, was evaluated.

Results

After 6-month intervention, the GAD-7 and PHQ-9 scores were significantly decreased in the intervention group (p &lt; 0.001 and p = 0.018 respectively). Both scored were significantly lower than that in the control group (p &lt; 0.001 and p &lt; 0.001). Compared with control group, the incidence of uracratia, pelvic organ prolapse, sexual dysfunction and chronic pelvic pain for intervention group was significantly lower (p = 0.003, p = 0.027, p = 0.001, p = 0.002 respectively) and the pelvic floor muscle strength was significantly stronger (p = 0.001). Besides, the postoperative Urinary Incontinence Impact Questionnaire (UIQ-7), Pelvic Organ Prolapse Impact Questionnaire (POPIQ-7), and Colorectal-Anal Impact Questionnaire (CRAIQ-7) scores were significantly lower (p = 0.025, p = 0.04, p &lt; 0.001) and PISQ-12 score was significantly higher in intervention group (p &lt; 0.001).

Conclusion

Psychological intervention could effectively improve the psychological condition of patients with hysterectomy, which may facilitate patients' postoperative recovery in pelvic floor function. These findings emphasized the necessity of psychological intervention in routine postoperative nursing care.

Update of Robotic Surgery in Benign Gynecological Pathology: Systematic Review

Background and Objectives: Since the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) approval in 2005, the application of robotic surgery (RS) in gynecology has been adopted all over the world. This study aimed to provide an update on RS in benign gynecological pathology by reporting the scientific recommendations and high-value scientific literature available to date. Materials and Methods: A systematic review of the literature was performed. Prospective randomized clinical trials (RCT) and large retrospective trials were included in the present review. Results: Twenty-two studies were considered eligible for the review: eight studies regarding robotic myomectomy, five studies on robotic hysterectomy, five studies about RS in endometriosis treatment, and four studies on robotic pelvic organ prolapse (POP) treatment. Overall, 12 RCT and 10 retrospective studies were included in the analysis. In total 269,728 patients were enrolled, 1721 in the myomectomy group, 265,100 in the hysterectomy group, 1527 in the endometriosis surgical treatment group, and 1380 patients received treatment for POP. Conclusions: Currently, a minimally invasive approach is suggested in benign gynecological pathologies. According to the available evidence, RS has comparable clinical outcomes compared to laparoscopy (LPS). RS allowed a growing number of patients to gain access to MIS and benefit from a minimally invasive treatment, due to a flattened learning curve and enhanced dexterity and visualization.

The first European gynaecological procedure with the new surgical robot Hugo™ RAS. A total hysterectomy and salpingo-oophorectomy in a woman affected by BRCA-1 mutation

Background

The benefits of minimally invasive surgery are well known in gynaecology. Robotic-assisted surgery has gained widespread acceptance within the surgical community and seems to be the most rapidly developing sector of minimally invasive surgery.

Objectives

This video shows the salient steps of total hysterectomy with new robotic technology, Hugo™ RAS. The objectives were to introduce and demonstrate the feasibility, efficacy, and safety of this new advanced device.

Materials and Methods

A sixty-two years-old woman affected by BRCA-1 mutation underwent the first European gynaecological surgical procedure using the new surgical robot Hugo™ RAS in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy.

Main outcome measures

Docking and operative times.

Results

The docking time was 6 minutes and the total operative time was 58 minutes. There were no system errors and faults in the robotic arms. The surgeon found no friction or rasping in the arms. The estimated blood loss was 30 mL. No intraoperative complications were recorded.

Conclusion

Gynaecological surgery with Hugo™ RAS seems feasible, safe and effective as shown by initial experiences in urological surgery. A larger case series would confirm the current experience and determine whether this technology could offer any additional benefit.

The Role of Robotic Visceral Surgery in Patients with Adhesions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abdominal adhesions are a risk factor for conversion to open surgery. An advantage of robotic surgery is the lower rate of unplanned conversions. A systematic review was conducted using the terms “laparoscopic” and “robotic”. Inclusion criteria were: comparative studies evaluating patients undergoing laparoscopic and robotic surgery; reporting data on conversion to open surgery for each group due to adhesions and studies including at least five patients in each group. The main outcomes were the conversion rates due to adhesions and surgeons’ expertise (novice vs. expert). The meta-analysis included 70 studies from different surgical specialities with 14,329 procedures (6472 robotic and 7857 laparoscopic). The robotic approach was associated with a reduced risk of conversion (OR 1.53, 95% CI 1.12–2.10, p = 0.007). The analysis of the procedures performed by “expert surgeons” showed a statistically significant difference in favour of robotic surgery (OR 1.48, 95% CI 1.03–2.12, p = 0.03). A reduced conversion rate due to adhesions with the robotic approach was observed in patients undergoing colorectal cancer surgery (OR 2.62, 95% CI 1.20–5.72, p = 0.02). The robotic approach could be a valid option in patients with abdominal adhesions, especially in the subgroup of those undergoing colorectal cancer resection performed by expert surgeons.

Electrosurgical bipolar vessel sealing versus conventional clamping and suturing for total abdominal hysterectomy

Objectives

To compare the use of Electrosurgical bipolar vessel sealing LigaSure™ small jaw instrument (LSJI) with conventional suture ligation in total abdominal hysterectomy (TAH).

Methods

In this retrospective study 80 patients who underwent hysterectomy in the Gynecology and Obstetrics Department of Gulhane Education and Research Hospital between April 2017 and August 2018 were included. Two different groups that underwent Electrosurgical bipolar vessel sealing LigaSure™ small jaw instrument (LSJI) and conventional suture ligation in hysterectomy operation were analyzed retrospectively. The parameters evaluated and compared between the two groups include operation time, intraoperative blood loss, duration of hospitalization and incision length.

Results

Among the parameters we compared between the two groups, there was no statistically significant difference between the amount of intraoperative blood loss (p:0.68) and the incision length (p:0.65). Among the parameters we compared between the two groups, a statistically significant difference was observed between the operation time (p:0.016) and the duration of hospitalization (p:0.01).

Conclusion

Our comparison of LSJI vs. conventional ligation in hysterectomy revealed a significant difference only in operative time, where surgeries involving conventional ligation were shorter. On the other hand, incision length was evaluated in our study which has not been addressed in previous studies. There is also a need for multi-center studies that include more patients and evaluate cost-effectiveness.

Minimally invasive hysterectomy for benign indications-surgical volume matters: a retrospective cohort study comparing complications of robotic-assisted and conventional laparoscopic hysterectomies

The objective of this study was to evaluate the incidence of perioperative complications in robotic-assisted hysterectomies performed by high-volume robotic surgeons compared to conventional laparoscopic hysterectomies performed by all gynecologic surgeons. This retrospective cohort study was performed at a single-center community based hospital and medical center. A total of 332 patients who underwent hysterectomy for benign indications were included in this study. Half of these patients (n = 166) underwent conventional laparoscopic hysterectomy and the other half underwent a robotic-assisted laparoscopic hysterectomy. The main outcome measures included composite complication rate, estimated blood loss (EBL), and hospital length of stay (LOS). Median (IQR) EBL was significantly lower for robotic hysterectomy [22.5 (30) mL] compared to laparoscopic hysterectomy [100 (150) mL, p < 0.0001]. LOS was significantly shorter for robotic hysterectomy (1.0 ± 0.2 day) compared to laparoscopic hysterectomy (1.2 ± 0.7 days, p = 0.04). Despite averaging 3.0 (IQR 1.0) concomitant procedures compared to 0 (IQR 1.0) for the conventional laparoscopic hysterectomies, the incidence of any type of complication was lower in the robotic hysterectomy group (2 vs. 6%, p = 0.05). Finally, in a logistic regression model controlling for multiple confounders, robotic-assisted hysterectomy was less likely to result in a perioperative complication compared to traditional laparoscopic hysterectomy [odds ratio (95% CI) = 0.2 (0.1, 0.90), p = 0.04]. In conclusion, robotic-assisted hysterectomy may reduce complications compared with conventional laparoscopic hysterectomy when performed by high volume surgeons, especially in the setting of other concomitant gynecologic surgeries.

Robot-Assisted Total Laparoscopic Hysterectomy in Different Classes of Obesity: A Cohort Study

Background and Objectives:

Robot-assisted laparoscopic hysterectomy is a safe and feasible approach in patients with higher body mass index (BMI). Slightly longer operating time in patients with high BMI did not result in higher complication or conversion rates. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether robot-assisted total laparoscopic hysterectomy is a feasible and safe surgical approach in different classes of obesity.

Methods:

A single center retrospective cohort study was performed in a large secondary teaching hospital in the Netherlands. All patients who underwent robot-assisted total laparoscopic hysterectomy between January 1, 2011 and January 31, 2019 were included.

Results:

Data regarding patient characteristics, complication rate, conversion rate, skin-to-skin time, robot console time, and operating room time were collected. Surgery specific data were compared in patients with several classes of obesity. In total 356 cases were included. Median BMI was 29 kg/m² (range 18 – 59). Complication rate and conversion to laparotomy did not differ significantly in different classes of obesity. Robot console time and skin-to-skin time was significantly longer in women with a BMI ≥ 40 kg/m² (n = 34) compared to patients with normal BMI.

Conclusion:

Robot-assisted laparoscopic hysterectomy is a safe and feasible approach in women in different classes of obesity. The significantly prolonged operating time does not result in higher complication or conversion rates.

The clinical and financial impact of introducing robotic-assisted hysterectomy in a tertiary referral centre: A direct cost analysis of consecutive hysterectomies during a decade

BACKGROUND

Economic data and the clinical impact of introducing robotic-assisted hysterectomy in a European setting are scarce with conflicting findings.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study, the cost and complication rate of the different approaches of hysterectomy are investigated, both benign and (pre)malignant indications were included.

RESULTS

844 patients were included: 323 (38.3%) patients underwent robotic-assisted hysterectomy (RAH), 317 (37.5%) total abdominal hysterectomy (TAH), and 204 (24.2%) total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH). TAH dropped from 67.2% to 25.5% of procedures, whilst RAH rose to 41.8% of cases. The total hospitalisation cost was for RAH €5208.39 (±€916.91), for TAH €5846.61 (±€4464.37) and for TLH €3790.06 (±€1267.05). The postoperative complication rate of TAH (9.1%) was significantly higher in comparison with TLH and RAH (5.4% and 3.1%, respectively, p = 0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

RAH has replaced TAH in most cases, especially for large uteri, early-stage endometrial cancer and in selected endometriosis cases, resulting in reduced morbidity with lower hospitalisation costs. The indications for TLH remained, including menorrhagia, adenomyosis and persistent cervical dysplasia.

Malfunction Events in the US FDA MAUDE Database: How Does Robotic Gynecologic Surgery Compare with Other Specialties?

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To review malfunction events (MEs) related to the use of the da Vinci robot reported to the United States Food and Drug Administration Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience in the last 10 years and compare gynecologic surgery with other surgical specialties.

DESIGN

A retrospective review.

SETTING

Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience database.

PATIENTS

Reports from 2010 to 2020 with keywords "Davinci" and "Intuitive".

INTERVENTIONS

Report review.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

There were 679 reports included in the final analysis. Most MEs occurred intraoperatively (81.7%) and were related to robotic instrument malfunction (84.5%), and 30% required an instrument switch to complete the procedure. Conversion to open and laparoscopic surgery was required in 3.1% and 1.3% of MEs, respectively. Injury to the patient occurred in 15.6% of MEs. Of the reported injuries to patients, 6.6% were related to robotic malfunction, 49.2% to instrument malfunction, and 18% to surgeon or staff misuse of the robotic system, and 15.6% were complications inherent to the procedure, not related to the robotic system. Of all the reported MEs, 4.4% were related to robot malfunction, 1.5% to console malfunction, 73.3% to Intuitive accessory malfunction, 11.2% to other accessory malfunction, 4% to surgeon or staff misuse of robotic system, and 3% to complications inherent to the procedure. Comparison between gynecologic surgery and other surgical specialties showed that 14.4% of issues were solved intraoperatively in gynecologic surgery vs 13.7% in other specialties (p = .185). The procedure was completed robotically in 85.2% in gynecologic surgery vs 84% in other specialties, laparoscopically 4.6% vs 3.7%, and open in 10.2% vs 12.4%, respectively (p = .883). In gynecologic surgery, reported MEs were made by patients in 14.8% vs 4.8% in other specialties, manufacturer in 78.4% vs 74.2%, and operating room staff in 2.3% vs 16.1%, respectively (p = .007). Injury to patient was similar in gynecologic surgery compared with other specialties (35.1% vs 23.4%, p = .122). Gynecologic and other specialty MEs did not state the need for procedure rescheduling (0% vs 0%).

CONCLUSION

Most reported robotic MEs occurred intraoperatively, were related to robotic instrument malfunctions, and required an instrument switch. Most surgeries are completed robotically, but conversion to either an open or laparoscopic approach was reported in 4.4%. Of the 114 reported injuries, 47.4% were Clavien-Dindo grade III+. There were no differences noted in patient injury between gynecologic surgery and other specialties.

Robotic Hysterectomy for Benign Indications: What Have We Learned from a Decade?

Background and Objectives

Robotic surgery data need a setback on many years of practice with high-volume surgeons to evaluate its real value. Our main objective was to study the impact of a decade of robotic surgery on minimally-invasive hysterectomies for benign indications. Our secondary objectives were to evaluate our results for high-volume surgeons and complex cases.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, we reviewed medical records at Foch Hospital, from 2010 to 2019, to evaluate the outcomes of robotic hysterectomies for benign disease. We compared the trends of benign hysterectomies done by laparoscopy and laparotomy during this period. We analyzed the proficiency group (≥ 75 cases per surgeon) and complex cases including obese patients and large uteri (>250 g).

Results

495 hysterectomies were performed by robotic, 275 by laparotomy, and 130 by laparoscopy. The laparotomy approach decreased from 62% to 29%, whereas the robotic approach increased from 26% to 61%. The operating room (OR) time decreased in the proficiency group (157.3 ± 43.32 versus 178.6 ± 48.05, P = 0.005); whereas the uterine weight was higher (194.6 ± 158.6 versus 161.3 ± 139.4, P = 0.04). Lower EBL and shorter OR time were seen with uteri ≤ 250 g subgroup (64.24 ± 110.2 ml versus 116.63 ± 146.98 ml, P = 0.0004) (169.62 ± 47.50 min versus 192.44 ± 45.82 min, P = 0.0001). The estimated blood loss (EBL) was less in the BMI ≤ 30 subgroup (68.83 ± 119.24 ml versus 124.53 ± 186.14 ml, P = 0.0005).

Conclusion

A shift was observed between the laparotomy and robotic approaches. High-volume surgeons were more efficient and showed a decrease in OR time after 75 cases despite an increase in uterine weight.

Receptor-Targeted Fluorescence-Guided Surgery With Low Molecular Weight Agents

Cancer surgery remains the primary treatment option for most solid tumors and can be curative if all malignant cells are removed. Surgeons have historically relied on visual and tactile cues to maximize tumor resection, but clinical data suggest that relapse occurs partially due to incomplete cancer removal. As a result, the introduction of technologies that enhance the ability to visualize tumors in the operating room represents a pressing need. Such technologies have the potential to revolutionize the surgical standard-of-care by enabling real-time detection of surgical margins, subclinical residual disease, lymph node metastases and synchronous/metachronous tumors. Fluorescence-guided surgery (FGS) in the near-infrared (NIRF) spectrum has shown tremendous promise as an intraoperative imaging modality. An increasing number of clinical studies have demonstrated that tumor-selective FGS agents can improve the predictive value of fluorescence over non-targeted dyes. Whereas NIRF-labeled macromolecules (i.e., antibodies) spearheaded the widespread clinical translation of tumor-selective FGS drugs, peptides and small-molecules are emerging as valuable alternatives. Here, we first review the state-of-the-art of promising low molecular weight agents that are in clinical development for FGS; we then discuss the significance, application and constraints of emerging tumor-selective FGS technologies.

Surgical morbidity of total laparoscopic hysterectomy for benign disease: Predictors of major postoperative complications

OBJECTIVE

To estimate rate of perioperative complications and to define risk factors of 30-day major (Clavien-Dindo ≥ 2) postoperative complications of total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH) for benign disease.

STUDY DESIGN

An uncontrolled single-center single-arm retrospective study. Data of consecutive patients who have undergone TLH for pathologically confirmed benign disease between January 2000 and December 2019 have been analyzed. Perioperative surgical outcomes, occurrence of postoperative complications, readmissions, and reoperations within 30 days from surgery were registered. Univariate and multivariable analyses were performed to determine the factors associated with major (Clavien-Dindo ≥ 2) postoperative complications.

RESULTS

Over the study period 3090 patients were included in the study. Conversion to open surgery occurred in 54 (1.7%) cases. Mean operative time for TLH was 87.7 (±1.7) minutes while mean estimated blood loss was 119.5 (+7.4) mL. Overall, postoperative complications were registered in 430 (13.9%) patients, and major events were observed in 208 (6.7%) of the cases. Same-hospital readmissions and reoperations within 30-day from surgery occurred in 78 (2.5%) and 28 (0.9%) patients, respectively. At multivariable analysis, endometriosis (odds ratio: 3.51, 95%CI:1.54-8.30, p = 0.02), the need for conversion to open surgery (odds ratio: 1.26, 98%CI:1.03-12.64, p < 0.001), and the occurrence of any intraoperative complication (odds ratio: 3.10, 95%CI: 1.45-21.61, p < 0.001) were found as independent risk factors for major postoperative complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Total hysterectomy performed via laparoscopy is associated with acceptable major postoperative complications rate. A huge effort should be made to minimize the occurrence of intraoperative complications and the need for conversion to open surgery. Patients undergoing TLH for endometriosis should be counselled about the increased risk of major postoperative events.

The Impact of New Surgical Techniques on Geographical Unwarranted Variation: The Case of Benign Hysterectomy

Since the 1980s, the international literature has reported variations for healthcare services, especially for elective ones. Variations are positive if they reflect patient preferences, while if they do not, they are unwarranted, and thus avoidable. Benign hysterectomy is among the most frequent elective surgical procedures in developed countries, and, in recent years, it has been increasingly delivered through minimally invasive surgical techniques, namely laparoscopic or robotic. The question therefore arises over what the impact of these new surgical techniques on avoidable variation is. In this study we analyze the extent of unwarranted geographical variation of treatment rates and of the adoption of minimally invasive procedures for benign hysterectomy in an Italian regional healthcare system. We assess the impact of the surgical approach on the provision of benign hysterectomy, in terms of efficiency (by measuring the average length of stay) and efficacy (by measuring the post-operative complications). Geographical variation was observed among regional health districts for treatment rates and waiting times. At a provider level, we found differences for the minimally invasive approach. We found a positive and significant association between rates and the percentage of minimally invasive procedures. Providers that frequently adopt minimally invasive procedures have shorter average length of stay, and when they also perform open hysterectomies, fewer complications.

Trends in Hysterectomy Incidence Rates During 2000-2015 in Denmark: Shifting from Abdominal to Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures

Background

Hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) is a common surgical procedure in gynecology. Although minimally invasive surgical procedures have been introduced, hysterectomy is still associated with risk of short- and long-term complications. Given that hysterectomized women are no longer at risk of either hysterectomy or being diagnosed with endometrial or cervical cancer, it is important to describe trends in hysterectomy rates.

Objective

To describe trends in hysterectomy incidence rates overall and stratified by age, indication, and procedure.

Methods

Nationwide population-based cohort study using Danish national registries, 2000–2015, was conducted. We calculated the overall hysterectomy-corrected and age-standardized incidence rates of hysterectomy among women ≥20 years old. Incidence rates were stratified by age group, indication, and surgical procedure. We performed trend analyses using Joinpoint regression, thereby estimating the average annual percentage change (AAPC).

Results

A total of 98,484 women had a hysterectomy during the study period, corresponding to an overall age-standardized, hysterectomy-corrected hysterectomy incidence rate (SIR) of 351.1 per 100,000 person-years (95% CI 348.9;353.3). SIR of hysterectomy declined over time (AAPC −1.4; 95% CI −1.9;-1.0), which was driven by a decline in rates of benign hysterectomy (AAPC −2.1; 95% CI −2.7;-1.6). Irrespective of indication, rates of abdominal hysterectomy declined substantially during the study period and were surpassed by rates of minimally invasive procedures (ie, laparoscopy and robot-assisted laparoscopy) in 2013.

Conclusion

Hysterectomy-corrected incidence rates of benign hysterectomy declined over time. Irrespective of indication, we observed a shift in surgical procedure over time, from abdominal hysterectomy to minimally invasive surgical procedures.

To Robot or Not To Robot: The Use of Robotics in Benign Gynecologic Surgery

The use of robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery has continued to grow since the Food and Drug Administration approval for robotic-assisted gynecologic surgery in 2005. However, despite this growth in utilization, the data supporting its use in benign gynecologic surgery has not strongly supported its advantages over conventional laparoscopy. Controversy exists between supporters of robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery and conventional laparoscopy. This article discusses the current literature regarding the use of robotic-assisted surgery in benign gynecologic surgery.

Changes in route of hysterectomy in Norway since introduction of robotic approach

INTRODUCTION

From 2008, several Norwegian Health Trusts have acquired surgical robotic systems, and robotic hysterectomy accounted for 15 % of all hysterectomies performed in Norway in 2018. Robotic assisted hysterectomy is costly, and there is no evidence that the clinical outcome of robotic assisted hysterectomy is superior compared to the outcomes following other minimal invasive hysterectomies such as vaginal and laparoscopic hysterectomies. The objectives of this study were to describe the implementation of robotic hysterectomy and changes in other hysterectomy approaches, such as open abdominal, laparoscopic and vaginal hysterectomy in hospitals with and without robotic systems for hysterectomy.

METHODS

Quantitative study based on hysterectomy data between 2010 to 2018 from the Norwegian Patient Registry.

RESULTS

9 out of 19 health trusts performed robotic assisted hysterectomy during the study period. The rate of abdominal hysterectomies declined during the study period, both in the health trusts with and without available surgical robotic systems. The rate of other minimally invasive hysterectomies also declined in some health trusts after the implementation of robotic assisted hysterectomy.

DISCUSSION

Robotic hysterectomy has been implemented and is increasing in Norway without a thorough evaluation of the effect on patient safety and possible economic consequences. According to our findings, it appears that the implementation of robotic hysterectomy has not had a significant impact on the use of open abdominal hysterectomy. Although associated with increased costs and a lack of evidence of improved clinical outcomes for women, robotic hysterectomy has furthermore to some extent replaced other minimal invasive hysterectomies.

Clinical Outcomes of Robotic Surgery Compared to Conventional Surgical Approaches (Laparoscopic or Open): A Systematic Overview of Reviews

OBJECTIVE

Describe clinical outcomes (eg, postoperative complications, survival) after robotic surgery compared to open or laparoscopic surgery.

BACKGROUND

Robotic surgery utilization has increased over the years across a wide range of surgical procedures. However, evidence supporting improved clinical outcomes after robotic surgery is limited.

METHODS

We systematically searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of systematic reviews from inception to January 2019 for systematic reviews describing postoperative outcomes after robotic surgery. We qualitatively described patient outcomes of commonly performed robotic procedures: radical prostatectomy, hysterectomy, lobectomy, thymectomy, rectal resection, partial nephrectomy, distal gastrectomy, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, hepatectomy, distal pancreatectomy, and cholecystectomy.

RESULTS

One hundred fifty-four systematic reviews included 336 studies and 18 randomized controlled trials reporting on patient outcomes after robotic compared to laparoscopic or open procedures. Data from the randomized controlled trials demonstrate that robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy offered fewer biochemical recurrence and improvement in quality of recovery and pain scores only up to 6 weeks postoperatively compared to open radical prostatectomy. When compared to laparoscopic prostatectomy, robotic surgery offered improved urinary and sexual functions. Robotic surgery for endometrial cancer had fewer conversion to open compared to laparoscopic. Otherwise, robotic surgery outcomes were similar to conventional surgical approaches for other procedures except for radical hysterectomy where minimally invasive approaches may result in patient harm compared to open approach.

CONCLUSION

Robotic surgery has been widely incorporated into practise despite limited supporting evidence. More rigorous research focused on patient-important benefits is needed before further expansion of robotic surgery.

Risk of Upper-body Adverse Events in Robot-assisted Total Laparoscopic Hysterectomy for Benign Gynecologic Disease

STUDY OBJECTIVE

Recent studies suggest that prolonged Trendelenburg positioning during robot-assisted total laparoscopic hysterectomy (RA-TLH) may lead to fluid shifts and pulmonary, airway, head and neck, and cranial complications in the upper body. This study examined the upper-body complications during RA-TLH for benign gynecologic disease.

DESIGN

Population-based retrospective study.

SETTING

The National Inpatient Sample.

PATIENTS

A total of 771 412 women who had total hysterectomy for benign gynecologic disease from October 2008 to September 2015, including 661 284 women who had total abdominal hysterectomy (TAH), 51 544 women who had traditional TLH, and 58 584 women who had RA-TLH.

INTERVENTIONS

A multiple-group generalized boosted model to balance the measured baseline covariates across the 3 hysterectomy groups and a generalized estimating equation model to assess the effect size of complication risk (overall and upper-body complications).

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Women in the RA-TLH group were more likely to be older, white, and have a higher comorbidity index (all, p <.001). The overall rate of upper-body complications was 4.6% across the 3 groups. RA-TLH was not associated with increased risk of upper-body complications compared with traditional TLH (odds ratio [OR] 1.06; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.90-1.26) or TAH (OR 0.98; 95% CI, 0.87-1.11). In contrast, RA-TLH was associated with decreased risk of overall perioperative complications compared with TAH (12.0% vs 18.6%; OR 0.64; 95% CI, 0.59-0.70; p <.001). RA-TLH and traditional TLH had similar risk of overall perioperative complications (12.0% vs 13.1%; OR 0.91; 95% CI, 0.8-1.02; p = .099). Women who developed upper-body complications had a higher perioperative mortality rate (0.4% vs <0.01%; OR 79.1; 95% CI, 36.0-174). The highest rates of complications (62.5%) were observed in morbidly obese women aged 70-79 with a comorbidity index of ≥4.

CONCLUSION

In hysterectomy for benign gynecologic disease, RA-TLH was not associated with an increased risk of upper-body complications compared with TAH or traditional TLH. However, older age and higher comorbidity are key risk factors that increase the risk of upper-body complications which carry a disproportionally high mortality rate.

Patient-Reported Experiences After Hysterectomy: A Cross-Sectional Study of the Views of Over 2300 Women

Objective:

To evaluate women’s experiences after hysterectomy and predictors of their contentment and regret with the surgical approaches.

Methods:

Cross-sectional, Patient-Reported Experience Measures survey in 2319 Australian women aged 21 to 90 years (median age of 52 years) who had received hysterectomy in the preceding 2 years.

Results:

Overall, the vast majority of women (>96%) did not regret having had the hysterectomy. Women who received an open abdominal hysterectomy reported slower recovery with about 7% of women still not fully recovered after 12 months compared to those whose surgery was through a less invasive approach. Women who reported no adverse events, having been given a choice of type of hysterectomy, women who received an alternative to open abdominal hysterectomy, and women who felt prepared for discharge from hospital were significantly more likely to be content with their hysterectomy and report positive patient experiences.

Conclusions:

Compared with those who received a less invasive approach to hysterectomy, women who received open surgery were more likely to express negative experiences relating to their hospital stay and recovery from surgery. The results inform future improvements of care for women planning a hysterectomy.

A collaborative robotic uterine positioning system for laparoscopic hysterectomy: Design and experiments

BACKGROUND

Uterus manipulation is a lengthy and tedious task that is usually performed by a human assistant during laparoscopic hysterectomy. Note that the performance of the assistant may decrease with time. Moreover, under this approach, the primary surgeon does not have direct control over the uterus position. He/she can only verbally request the assistant to place it on a particular configuration.

METHODS

A robotic system composed of a 3 degrees-of-freedom uterine positioner is developed to assist in changing configuration of the uterus during laparoscopic hysterectomy. The developed system has a remote centre of motion structure; independently controlling the uterus motion with one joint at the time is allowed.

RESULTS

From the lab experiments, it is found that the robot shows better performance in retaining the uterus position and shows quicker response to the surgeon's instruction. Cadaver studies have been conducted to evaluate the feasibility of the robot. The robot was also applied to real patients in a clinical study.

CONCLUSIONS

The robot is capable of assisting in uterus manipulation during laparoscopic hysterectomy. However, its user friendliness can be improved by simplifying the docking procedure. Furthermore, a more ergonomic user interface is desired.

Mini-plus percutaneous setting in total laparoscopic hysterectomy

INTRODUCTION

We aimed to analyze the preliminary experience of a mini-plus percutaneous instrument (MpPc) setting in total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Forty-three women who underwent a mini-plus percutaneous total laparoscopic hysterectomy at a tertiary-care university-based teaching hospital and academic affiliated private hospital between May 2017 and 2018 were included. MpPc-TLH was performed through one optical trans-umbilical 5-mm trocar, one 5-mm ancillary port on the right side, either one 2.4-mm percutaneous endoscopic instrument or 3-mm mini-laparoscopic port on the right upper quadrant and if required one 3-mm ancillary port on the left lower quadrant.

RESULTS

A total of 43 patients were included, with a median age of 48 years (range, 38-71 years). Indication for surgery included uterine myomas (n = 20), benign adnexal mass (n = 7), endometrial intraepithelial neoplasia (n = 6), endometrial cancer (n = 5), adenomyosis with abnormal bleeding (n = 3), and high-grade cervical dysplasia (n = 2). The median operating time was 100 min (range, 60-180 min), and the median estimated blood loss was 30 ml (range, 20-60ml). The median postoperative abdominal pain Visual Analog Scale score was 3 (range, 0-6).

CONCLUSIONS

The preliminary data suggest that MpPc approach is a feasible and safe surgical modality for total laparoscopic hysterectomy.

Factors that Lengthen Patient Hospitalizations Following Laparoscopic Hysterectomy

Objective

To establish descriptive observations associated with prolonged hospitalization after laparoscopic hysterectomy prior to the implementation of a department-wide Enhanced Recovery After Surgery protocol.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study at three academic affiliated hospitals in the southeastern United States was conducted evaluating length of hospitalization by patient, surgical, and physician factors for 384 patients who underwent total laparoscopic hysterectomy, laparoscopic assisted vaginal hysterectomy, and robotic assisted total laparoscopic hysterectomy for benign conditions by general and subspecialized gynecologists from 2010 to 2015.

Results

Among 384 patients, 19.5% experienced prolonged hospitalization, defined as greater than one day. After adjusting for covariates, robotic assisted total laparoscopic hysterectomy (aOR 3.13), dietary restrictions on postoperative day 1 (aOR 4.42), postoperative nausea or vomiting (aOR 2.01), and postoperative complications (aOR 3.58) were associated with prolonged hospitalization.

Conclusion

Data from this study were collected prior to implementation of department-wide enhanced recovery after surgery protocols and highlights areas for improvement. Implementation of specific aspects of these protocols, including aggressive prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting and early feeding, are easily made changes which may help to effectively decrease length of stay after laparoscopic hysterectomy. Patient and provider education on enhanced recovery protocols is also key to reducing length of stay.

Robotic versus laparoscopic hysterectomy; comparison of early surgical outcomes

Objective

To compare early surgical outcomes of robotic assisted laparoscopic hysterectomy with laparoscopic hysterectomy for benign diseases, in terms of operation time, estimated blood loss (EBL), perioperative complications, hospital stay and first gas discharge.

Material and Methods

Medical records of 146 patients who either underwent laparoscopic (n=84) or robotic assisted laparoscopic hysterectomy (n=62) for benign diseases were extracted from records. Demographic characteristics and operation time, EBL, length of hospital stay and first gas discharge were compared between the groups.

Results

Mean age and mean body mass index of both groups were comparable. The difference in the mean EBL was not statistically significant between laparoscopic (91±65 mL) and robotic group (80±37 mL, p=0.43). The difference in the mean first gas discharge time was not statistically different between laparoscopic (15±5 hours) and robotic group (17±6 hours, p=0.33). The length of hospital stay was comparable between groups (1.4±0.5 vs 1.5±0.7 days, p=0.64). The mean operation time was longer for the robotic group (150±180 minimum) when compared with laparoscopic group (105±18 minimum, p<0.01). The mean uterine weight of the robotic group was significantly heavier compared with laparoscopic group (234±157 grams vs 153±119 grams, respectıvely, p<0.01).

Conclusion

Early surgical outcomes of robotic assisted laparoscopic and laparoscopic hysterectomy were comparable in terms of EBL, first gas discharge and hospital stay. Operation time was longer for robotic hysterectomy.