Comparison of Robot-assisted Implant-based Breast Reconstruction Systems: Single-site da Vinci Xi System Versus SP System

Abstract

Background: Two types of robotic systems are mainly used in implant-based robot-assisted breast reconstruction (RBR): the single-site approach using the da Vinci Xi system (Xi-RBR), and SP system (SP-RBR). In this study, we aimed to compare Xi-RBR and SP-RBR in prosthetic breast reconstruction. Methods: A total of 24 patients (27 breasts) and 25 patients (25 breasts) underwent implant-based breast reconstruction from July 2019 to October 2021 with da Vinci Xi and SP, respectively, by a single surgeon. Data were collected through a retrospective chart review regarding patient demographics, surgical factors, and complications. Results: There were no significant differences in demographics overall. The average operation time of the Xi-RBR group was 85.28 minutes, which was significantly longer than that (72.33 min) of the Xi-RBR group ( P = 0.0168). In addition, the size of the acellular dermal matrix used in the SP-RBR group was significantly larger than that used in the Xi-RBR group ( P = 0.0041). However, there were no significant differences in surgical complications between the 2 groups. Conclusions: The da Vinci Xi system is convenient to use, is easy to operate, and has a less steep learning curve. However, the da Vinci SP system, although more difficult to operate, is more appropriate for breast surgery. As there are no significant differences in the surgical outcomes between the systems, we recommend using the da Vinci SP for implant-based breast reconstruction.