Do we need a robot in endometriosis surgery?

Abstract

Since the initial approval of robotic surgery for gynecologic procedures in 2005, its use has been widely adopted, and its application has been expanded beyond hysterectomies and myomectomies. The role of robotics in endometriosis surgery remains controversial, as no randomized control trials have been conducted to evaluate its use over conventional laparoscopy, the current gold standard for diagnosis and treatment. The advantage of robotic surgery in early stage endometriosis remains unclear, whereas several case reports and retrospective studies have suggested a role for robotics in treating advanced stage and deep infiltrating endometriosis. Advantages in advanced stage endometriosis include lower blood loss and possible reduction in length of hospital stay, compared to conventional laparoscopy; however, operative times are consistently longer in robotic surgery with no differences in quality of life and fertility outcomes. Randomized control trials comparing robotic to conventional laparoscopy for endometriosis surgery are needed to more clearly define the role for this promising technology.