Our Summary

This research paper discusses the use of a new robot-assisted surgical system, the Saroa Surgical System, in a case involving a 40-year-old woman with advanced sigmoid colon cancer. The Saroa Surgical System was developed by RIVERFIELD, a venture company at the Tokyo Medical and Dental University and the Tokyo Institute of Technology, and offers a significant advantage over other robot-assisted surgical systems - it provides tactile feedback to the surgeon. This feedback is important as it reduces the risk of complications during surgery, shortens the duration of the operation, and speeds up the learning process for new surgeons. The study reported a successful operation that was safely performed with appropriate adjustments, and resulted in no blood loss and a recovery time of just six days. This case represents the first instance of the Saroa Surgical System being used to treat sigmoid cancer.

FAQs

  1. What is the Saroa Surgical System and who developed it?
  2. What are the advantages of using the Saroa Surgical System in surgeries?
  3. How did the use of the Saroa Surgical System impact the surgery and recovery of the 40-year-old woman with advanced sigmoid colon cancer?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about sigmoidectomy is to follow their post-operative care instructions carefully. This may include taking prescribed medications, eating a healthy diet, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments. It is also important to communicate any unusual symptoms or concerns to your healthcare provider promptly. By following these guidelines, patients can help ensure a successful recovery and minimize the risk of complications.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended sigmoidectomy include those with:

  • Sigmoid colon cancer
  • Diverticulitis
  • Colonic inertia
  • Chronic constipation
  • Colorectal polyps
  • Inflammatory bowel disease

It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider to determine if sigmoidectomy is the most appropriate treatment option for their condition.

Timeline

Before sigmoidectomy:

  1. Patient presents with symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, changes in bowel habits, and rectal bleeding.
  2. Patient undergoes diagnostic tests such as colonoscopy, CT scan, and biopsy to confirm the presence of sigmoid colon cancer.
  3. Treatment options are discussed with the patient, including surgery to remove the affected portion of the colon (sigmoidectomy).
  4. Patient undergoes pre-operative preparation, which may include dietary restrictions, bowel preparation, and consultations with anesthesia and surgical teams.

After sigmoidectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes sigmoidectomy surgery using the Saroa Surgical System, which provides tactile feedback to the surgeon.
  2. The operation is successfully performed with appropriate adjustments, resulting in no blood loss.
  3. Patient experiences a recovery time of just six days post-surgery.
  4. Patient is monitored closely for any complications or signs of infection.
  5. Patient undergoes follow-up appointments to monitor healing and discuss any further treatment or surveillance options.

Overall, the patient experiences a streamlined surgical process with reduced risk of complications and faster recovery time due to the use of the Saroa Surgical System.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is a sigmoidectomy and why is it being recommended for me?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with a sigmoidectomy?
  3. How long is the recovery process after a sigmoidectomy?
  4. What are the expected outcomes and success rates for a sigmoidectomy in treating sigmoid colon cancer?
  5. Are there any alternative treatment options available for my condition?
  6. How experienced are you in performing sigmoidectomies, and how many have you done successfully?
  7. Will I need any additional treatments or follow-up care after the surgery?
  8. How will my quality of life be affected after a sigmoidectomy?
  9. Will I need to make any lifestyle changes or follow a specific diet after the surgery?
  10. What can I expect during the surgical procedure, including the use of the Saroa Surgical System?

Reference

Authors: Hanaoka M, Kinugasa Y, Sakai Y, Tokunaga M. Journal: Updates Surg. 2023 Dec;75(8):2395-2401. doi: 10.1007/s13304-023-01659-5. Epub 2023 Oct 16. PMID: 37840105