Our Summary

This research paper talks about a new robotic surgery platform, the Hugo RAS system (by Medtronic), being used for colectomy surgeries (removal of part or all of the colon). Until now, most of the studies regarding the clinical use of such robotic platforms have been in the fields of gynecology and urology. The team conducting these surgeries had prior experience with robotic surgery and underwent specific training for this platform, including simulation training and practicing on cadavers.

The paper reports the outcomes of the first three colectomy surgeries performed with this system. All three patients had been diagnosed with colonic adenocarcinoma (a type of colon cancer) and underwent successful surgeries without any serious errors or alarms. There were also no complications during the surgery, and none of the surgeries had to be converted to traditional open surgery. The patients stayed in the hospital for an average of 5 days after the surgery, which is considered normal.

In conclusion, the study suggests that the Hugo RAS system has great potential for use in general and colorectal surgery, but more data and experience are needed to standardize the procedure and fully integrate this system into routine clinical practice.

FAQs

  1. What is the Hugo RAS system and what is it used for?
  2. What were the results of the first three colectomy surgeries performed with the Hugo RAS system?
  3. Does the study conclude that the Hugo RAS system is ready for routine use in general and colorectal surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about colectomy is to follow post-operative care instructions closely. This may include maintaining a proper diet, staying hydrated, taking prescribed medications, avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider. By following these instructions, patients can help ensure a smooth recovery and reduce the risk of complications.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for colectomy surgery include those with:

  1. Colorectal cancer: Patients with colon or rectal cancer may undergo colectomy surgery to remove the cancerous tissue and prevent further spread of the disease.

  2. Inflammatory bowel disease: Patients with conditions such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease may require colectomy surgery if other treatments have been ineffective or if there are complications such as severe inflammation, strictures, or fistulas.

  3. Diverticulitis: Severe cases of diverticulitis, an inflammatory condition of the colon, may require colectomy surgery if there are recurrent episodes, complications such as perforation or abscess formation, or if other treatments have been unsuccessful.

  4. Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC): Patients with these genetic conditions may undergo colectomy surgery as a preventive measure to reduce their risk of developing colon cancer.

  5. Bowel obstruction: Patients with a complete or partial blockage of the colon may require colectomy surgery to remove the obstruction and relieve symptoms.

  6. Trauma or injury: Patients who have sustained severe trauma or injury to the colon may require colectomy surgery to repair the damage and prevent complications.

Overall, the decision to recommend colectomy surgery is based on the individual patient’s specific condition, symptoms, and overall health, and should be made in consultation with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare providers.

Timeline

Before the colectomy:

  1. Patient is diagnosed with colonic adenocarcinoma (colon cancer).
  2. Patient undergoes consultations with healthcare providers and surgeons to discuss treatment options.
  3. Patient undergoes pre-operative testing and preparation for surgery.
  4. Patient may undergo chemotherapy or radiation therapy prior to surgery.
  5. Patient is admitted to the hospital on the day of surgery.

After the colectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes surgery using the Hugo RAS system for colectomy.
  2. Patient recovers in the hospital for an average of 5 days post-surgery.
  3. Patient is monitored for complications and receives pain management.
  4. Patient is discharged from the hospital and instructed on post-operative care.
  5. Patient may require follow-up appointments with healthcare providers for monitoring and further treatment.
  6. Patient undergoes rehabilitation and adjusts to life with a partial or total removal of the colon.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about colectomy using the Hugo RAS system may include:

  1. What specific training and experience do you have with the Hugo RAS system for colectomy surgeries?
  2. What are the potential benefits of using the Hugo RAS system for my colectomy compared to traditional open surgery?
  3. Are there any potential risks or complications associated with using the Hugo RAS system for colectomy?
  4. How long is the recovery process expected to be after a colectomy with the Hugo RAS system?
  5. Will I need any additional follow-up or monitoring after the surgery if the Hugo RAS system is used?
  6. How many colectomy surgeries have you performed using the Hugo RAS system, and what has been the success rate?
  7. Are there any specific requirements or criteria that need to be met for me to be a candidate for a colectomy using the Hugo RAS system?
  8. What alternative treatment options are available for my condition, and how does the Hugo RAS system compare to these options?
  9. How will the use of the Hugo RAS system affect the overall cost of my colectomy surgery?
  10. Are there any long-term implications or considerations to keep in mind if I undergo a colectomy using the Hugo RAS system?

Reference

Authors: Bianchi PP, Salaj A, Rocco B, Formisano G. Journal: Updates Surg. 2023 Apr;75(3):775-780. doi: 10.1007/s13304-023-01489-5. Epub 2023 Mar 10. PMID: 36897505