Robotic‐assisted hepatic resection: a systematic review

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Currently, hepatic resections are being performed with robotic-assisted systems. There is little evidence regarding the outcomes of this surgical approach. This study aims to systematically review the outcomes related to robotic-assisted hepatic resections. METHODS: A systematic search of electronic databases was completed. All human studies, limited to adults, published between 2000 to August 2011 were included. RESULTS: Eight studies yielded a total of 170 procedures. The overall morbidity rate was 11.6% (range 0-39%). There were no mortalities reported following robotic-assisted hepatic resection. Mean operative time was 264.8 minutes, with a mean hospital length of stay of 7.8 days. Rate of conversion was 6.6%. Cost was greater than either laparoscopy or open hepatic surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Our systematic review suggests robotic-assisted hepatic resection is safe and feasible, with low mortality and morbidity rates. Further research is needed to determine if oncological outcomes are similar.