[Robotic-assisted operations for pathology of the aortoiliac segment: own experience]

Evaluation of the MMI Symani® robotic microsurgical system for coronary-bypass anastomoses in a cadaveric porcine model

The MMI Symani® is a recently approved robotic microsurgical system for surgical procedures in adults. The system enables the surgeon to create microanastomoses. Clinical applications so far include lymphatic vessels surgery and the creation of special flap plastics. The use of the system in coronary arteries has not yet been assessed. The aim of this preclinical study was to evaluate the applicability of the Symani® surgical system in the creation of coronary anastomoses a cadaveric porcine model. A total of 12 anastomoses were performed by three senior cardiovascular surgeons on the left main coronary artery of three porcine hearts. Artificial bypasses (diameter 1 mm) were performed to the left main trunk. The anastomoses were performed with the Symani® surgical system. Evaluation included procedure times and anastomosis leakage. All anastomoses could be successfully performed. The procedure time decreased due to the learning curve between the first anastomosis 47:28 ± 5:30 min and the last anastomosis 22:37 ± 3:25 min. The final evaluation of the anastomoses showed excellent results with low leakage. The quality of the anastomosis also improved in relation to the increasing learning curve. The Symani® surgical system could be used to create coronary anastomoses in an acceptable time frame and without technical failures. Hence, the system appears feasible for conventional coronary surgery. Further studies in animal models are mandatory prior to clinical application.

[Robot-assisted linear aortofemoral bypass surgery]

Aortofemoral bypass surgery is still the «gold standard» for aortoiliac lesions with excellent results and long-term patency despite improvement of endovascular surgery. Extensive surgical approaches are accompanied by high risk of postoperative complications. Development of minimally invasive surgery and achievements of computerized technologies made a revolution in all surgeries and minimize trauma following complex reconstructive procedures. This also reduces perioperative risks and accelerates recovery. Computerized robotic systems in vascular surgery provide safe complex procedures on aortoiliac segment. We present robot-assisted linear iliofemoral bypass surgery in a 69-year-old patient with chronic arterial insufficiency Fontein grade IV.

Repair of the descending thoracic aorta using minimally invasive endoscopic Robot-assisted surgery: a feasibility study with the DaVinci XI system in a cadaver model

Development of minimally invasive techniques has led to the clinical routine application of Robot-assisted surgery. Here, we demonstrate for the first time Robotic-assisted surgery (DaVinci XI) of the descending thoracic aorta in a Thiel cadaver model and discuss its potential value in the endovascular era.