Journal of robotic surgery
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Surgery for refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and hiatal hernia leads to recurrence or persisting dysphagia in a minority of patients. Redo antireflux surgery in GERD and hiatal hernia is known for higher morbidity and mortality. This study aims to evaluate conventional versus robot-assisted laparoscopic redo antireflux surgery, with the objective to detect possible advantages for the robot-assisted approach. ⋯ There were no differences in mortality, complications or outcome. Robotic support, when available, can be regarded beneficial in redo surgery for GERD and hiatal hernia. Results of this observational study suggest technical feasibility for minimal-invasive robot-assisted redo surgery after open primary antireflux surgery, a reduced number of conversions and shorter hospital stay.
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The laparoscopic approach to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is a highly regarded and frequently used bariatric procedure. We review our experience with robotic approaches to RYGB. We hypothesized that the robotic approach is safe and may produce similar outcomes to previously reported laparoscopic surgery. ⋯ Intraoperative complications included one liver laceration and one bowel injury. There were two cases each of bowel obstruction, transfusions, and deep vein thrombosis/pulmonary embolus, but no deaths or anastomotic leaks. Early experience with TR approach for RYGB is safe, with similar outcomes to the laparoscopic approach.