Implementation of a Robotic Colorectal Surgery Program: Early Outcomes from a Tertiary Referral Center
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background. Robotic-assisted colorectal surgery is increasingly adopted; however, evidence regarding outcomes during the early implementation phase remains limited. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility, safety, and short-term outcomes of a newly established robotic colorectal surgery program at a tertiary referral center. Methods. All consecutive patients undergoing robotic colorectal resection between November 2019 and February 2026 were prospectively recorded and retrospectively analyzed. Perioperative outcomes, conversion rates, postoperative complications, mortality, and histopathological results were assessed. Results. A total of 177 patients were included, with a progressive increase in surgical volume over time. Most procedures were performed for oncological indications (159, 90%), while 18 (10%) were performed for benign diseases. The most frequent procedures were right hemicolectomy (45%), left hemicolectomy (29%), and low anterior rectal resection (23%). Mean operative time was 331.1 ± 75.0 minutes. Conversion to open surgery occurred in 15 patients (8.5%), mainly due to extensive intra-abdominal adhesions, particularly during the early phase of the program. Postoperative complications occurred in 20 patients (11%), while 3 patients (2%) died within 30 days. Major complications (Clavien–Dindo ≥III) occurred in 7%, and anastomotic leakage in 3%. Mean hospital stay was 10.1 ± 7.6 days. R0 resection was achieved in all cases, with adequate lymph node retrieval for staging. Conclusions. Robotic colorectal surgery can be safely implemented at a tertiary center, achieving favorable perioperative and oncological outcomes even during the early learning phase.
Source: Journal of Clinical Medicine
DOI: 10.3390/jcm15208097
Language: English
Subfield: Oncology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,137
OpenAlex ID: W7204150561