J Korean Med Assoc.  2021 Oct;64(10):678-687. 10.5124/jkma.2021.64.10.678.

Application of robots in general surgery

• Kim JK
• Yang SY
• Kim SH
• Kim HI

• KMID: 2521627
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5124/jkma.2021.64.10.678

Abstract

Background
Application of robotic surgery in the field of general surgery has been increasing. This paper is an overview of the current uses and future perspectives of robotic surgery in four major divisions—endocrine, upper gastrointestinal, hepato-biliary-pancreatic (HBP), and colorectal surgery.
Current Concepts
In endocrine surgery, cosmetic advantage is the highest priority when selecting a surgical approach for thyroidectomy. Currently, the transaxillary route is the most common approach. The introduction of the single-port system could maximize the advantages of this technique. In upper gastrointestinal surgery, the use of robots has the advantage of better retrieval of lymph nodes, less bleeding, earlier discharge, and less complications than the laparoscopic approach. However, a more prospective comparative trial is required to confirm those findings. In the HBP field, the indications of robotic surgery have expanded, starting with cholecystectomy to more challenging procedures, such as donor hepatectomy and pancreaticoduodenectomy. Meticulous dissection using robots could provide benefits to patients. In colorectal surgery, robotic surgery is an excellent technical tool for minimally invasive surgeries for rectal cancers, especially in male patients with narrow, deep pelvises. However, further studies are required to confirm the impact of robotic surgery on rectal cancers.
Discussion and Conclusion
Robots are used to provide optimal surgical outcomes. Investigating new technologies and innovative surgical procedures is the highly important for a surgeon in the era of minimally invasive surgery.

Keyword

Robot surgery; Endocrine surgical procedures; Gastrointestinal surgery; Colorectal surgery; 로봇수술; 내분비수술; 위장관수술; 결장직장수술