Our Summary

This study compares two types of surgery for removing the left side of the colon: one done by a robot (Robotic Left Colectomy, or RLC), and one done by a human surgeon using a laparoscope (Laparoscopic Left Colectomy, or LLC). The main things they were looking at were how often they had to switch to traditional open surgery, and how many complications there were within 30 days of the operation.

They looked at 300 patients who had these surgeries between 2012 and 2022. About half of them had the robotic surgery, and the rest had the laparoscopic one.

When they compared the two groups, they found that the rates of switching to open surgery and of complications were about the same for both types of surgery. However, the robotic surgeries took a bit longer. Other factors like when the patients started eating again, when they first passed gas, and how long they stayed in the hospital were also similar between the two groups.

So, overall, the study suggests that robotic surgery for removing the left side of the colon is just as safe as the laparoscopic method, although it may take a bit longer.

FAQs

  1. What were the main factors compared between Robotic Left Colectomy and Laparoscopic Left Colectomy in this study?
  2. What were the main findings of this study comparing robotic and laparoscopic colectomy surgeries?
  3. Is the Robotic Left Colectomy as safe as the Laparoscopic Left Colectomy according to this study?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about colectomy is to discuss with their surgeon the different options available, including robotic and laparoscopic surgery, and to ask about the potential benefits and risks of each method. It’s important for patients to be informed and feel comfortable with the surgical approach that will be used for their procedure.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended colectomy include those with:

  • Colon cancer
  • Severe inflammatory bowel disease (such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease)
  • Diverticulitis
  • Colonic polyps
  • Colonic obstruction
  • Familial adenomatous polyposis

The decision to undergo colectomy is usually made after other treatments have been tried and have not been successful, or if there is a high risk of complications if the colon is not removed. The type of surgery recommended (robotic, laparoscopic, or open) will depend on various factors such as the patient’s overall health, the extent of the disease, and the surgeon’s expertise.

Timeline

Before colectomy:

  • Patient undergoes various tests and consultations to determine the need for surgery
  • Patient may be placed on a liquid diet and given bowel preparation medication to empty the colon
  • Patient may need to stay in the hospital for a few days before surgery

After colectomy:

  • Patient will have a recovery period in the hospital, typically 3-7 days
  • Patient may experience pain, bloating, and fatigue after surgery
  • Patient will gradually transition from a liquid diet to solid foods
  • Patient will need to follow a strict post-operative care plan, including medication, wound care, and physical activity restrictions
  • Patient will have follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider to monitor recovery and address any concerns

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with a colectomy surgery?

  2. How experienced are you in performing robotic left colectomy procedures?

  3. How do the outcomes of robotic left colectomy compare to traditional laparoscopic surgery in terms of recovery time, pain management, and long-term outcomes?

  4. Will I need to stay in the hospital after the surgery, and if so, for how long?

  5. What is the expected recovery time and when can I return to normal activities?

  6. Will I need any additional treatments or follow-up care after the surgery?

  7. How will the surgery affect my bowel movements and digestion in the long term?

  8. Are there any dietary or lifestyle changes I should make before or after the surgery?

  9. Will I need a temporary or permanent ostomy after the surgery, and if so, how will this impact my daily life?

  10. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before proceeding with a colectomy?

Reference

Authors: Solaini L, Giuliani G, Cavaliere D, Bocchino A, Di Marino M, Avanzolini A, Coratti A, Ercolani G. Journal: J Robot Surg. 2023 Oct;17(5):2135-2140. doi: 10.1007/s11701-023-01634-7. Epub 2023 May 29. PMID: 37247120