Our Summary

This research study looks at whether prior training in minimally invasive colorectal surgery (MICS) is necessary before training in robotic-assisted colorectal surgery (RACS). Two surgeons trained in RACS through the European Academy of Robotic Colorectal Surgery (EARCS), and one of them had no prior MICS training. They examined the first 30 robotic colorectal surgeries performed at their institution between November 2014 and January 2016.

The results showed that the surgeon without MICS training successfully performed 12 surgeries, while the one with MICS training performed 18. There were no complications during surgery and only two patients needed another operation. The average hospital stay after surgery was five days, and two patients had to be readmitted within 30 days. All cancer removal surgeries had clear margins, which means that no cancer was left behind.

The study’s findings suggest that prior MICS training is not necessary before RACS training. Hence, lack of MICS training should not deter surgeons from considering robotic training programs. Safe and successful robotic colorectal surgeries can still be performed after completing a formal RACS training program.

FAQs

  1. Is prior training in minimally invasive colorectal surgery necessary before training in robotic-assisted colorectal surgery?
  2. What were the outcomes of the surgeries performed by surgeons trained in robotic-assisted colorectal surgery?
  3. Should lack of minimally invasive colorectal surgery training deter surgeons from considering robotic training programs?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about colorectal surgery is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully. This may include taking prescribed medications, eating a healthy diet, staying hydrated, avoiding heavy lifting, and getting plenty of rest. It’s important to attend follow-up appointments with your surgeon to ensure proper healing and monitor for any complications. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, can help support your recovery and overall health.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended for colorectal surgery include those with:

  • Colorectal cancer
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis)
  • Diverticulitis
  • Rectal prolapse
  • Colorectal polyps
  • Colorectal obstruction
  • Fecal incontinence
  • Chronic constipation

It is important for patients to discuss their specific condition and treatment options with their healthcare provider to determine if colorectal surgery is the best course of action for their individual situation.

Timeline

Before Colorectal Surgery:

  1. Patient consults with a colorectal surgeon to discuss the need for surgery and the risks and benefits involved.
  2. Patient undergoes preoperative testing and preparation, which may include blood tests, imaging studies, and bowel preparation.
  3. Patient meets with an anesthesiologist to discuss anesthesia options and potential risks.
  4. Patient is instructed on preoperative dietary and medication restrictions.
  5. Patient may attend a preoperative education session to learn about what to expect before, during, and after surgery.

After Colorectal Surgery:

  1. Patient is taken to the recovery room to wake up from anesthesia and monitored closely for any complications.
  2. Patient may experience pain and discomfort, which is managed with pain medications.
  3. Patient begins a clear liquid diet and slowly progresses to solid foods as tolerated.
  4. Patient is encouraged to move around and walk to prevent blood clots and aid in recovery.
  5. Patient is discharged from the hospital when stable, usually within a few days after surgery.
  6. Patient follows up with the surgeon for postoperative care and monitoring.
  7. Patient may need additional treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, depending on the reason for surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about colorectal surgery include:

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with colorectal surgery?
  2. How experienced is the surgeon in performing robotic-assisted colorectal surgery?
  3. Will I need to undergo any additional tests or procedures before the surgery?
  4. How long is the recovery process after colorectal surgery?
  5. What are the expected outcomes of the surgery in terms of cancer removal and overall health improvement?
  6. Will I need any special care or follow-up after the surgery?
  7. What are the alternatives to robotic-assisted colorectal surgery, and why is this the best option for me?
  8. How long will I need to stay in the hospital after the surgery?
  9. What can I do to prepare for the surgery and ensure a successful outcome?
  10. Are there any dietary or lifestyle changes I should make before or after the surgery to aid in my recovery?

Reference

Authors: Sian TS, Tierney GM, Park H, Lund JN, Speake WJ, Hurst NG, Al Chalabi H, Smith KJ, Tou S. Journal: J Robot Surg. 2018 Jun;12(2):271-275. doi: 10.1007/s11701-017-0728-7. Epub 2017 Jul 18. PMID: 28721636