Our Summary

This study compares two different methods of removing the gallbladder: the traditional method where a surgeon uses small instruments and a camera (laparoscopic cholecystectomy) and a newer method using a robot (robotic single-site cholecystectomy). The researchers looked at 791 patients who had one of these procedures at their facility between 2019 and 2022. They then selected 117 patients from each group who were similar in terms of factors like age, sex, and health status.

The results showed that the only significant difference between the two methods was how long the surgery took. On average, the traditional method was about 9 minutes quicker than the robotic method. However, this small difference isn’t considered clinically relevant.

The researchers also found that the robotic method became more efficient after the 53rd case, suggesting that there’s a learning curve to mastering this technique. When they compared the results from the traditional method and the robotic method after this learning curve, the only significant difference was still the surgery time.

Overall, the study suggests that the robotic method is a safe and viable option for removing the gallbladder in patients with benign (non-cancerous) gallbladder disease. It has a relatively short learning curve and the surgery time, although slightly longer, is still reasonable.

FAQs

  1. What is the main difference between conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy and robotic single-site cholecystectomy?
  2. Is robotic single-site cholecystectomy a safe method for treating benign gallbladder diseases?
  3. How does the operative time compare between conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy and robotic single-site cholecystectomy?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about laparoscopic cholecystectomy is to follow all pre-operative instructions carefully, such as fasting before the procedure and stopping certain medications as instructed. This can help ensure a smooth surgery and recovery process.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for laparoscopic cholecystectomy include those with symptomatic gallstones, gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis), gallbladder polyps, gallbladder dyskinesia, or gallbladder cancer. Additionally, patients who are at a higher risk for complications from traditional open surgery, such as those with obesity, advanced age, or multiple comorbidities, may also be good candidates for laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Timeline

Before laparoscopic cholecystectomy:

  1. Patient presents with symptoms of gallbladder disease such as abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
  2. Patient undergoes diagnostic tests such as ultrasound or CT scan to confirm the presence of gallstones.
  3. Patient consults with a surgeon to discuss treatment options, including laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
  4. Patient undergoes pre-operative evaluation and preparation for surgery.

After laparoscopic cholecystectomy:

  1. Patient is taken to the operating room and given anesthesia.
  2. Surgeon makes small incisions in the abdomen and inserts a laparoscope and other surgical instruments.
  3. Gallbladder is removed using minimally invasive techniques.
  4. Patient is monitored in the recovery room before being discharged home the same day or after a short hospital stay.
  5. Patient may experience some pain and discomfort in the days following surgery, which can be managed with pain medication.
  6. Patient is advised to follow post-operative instructions, including dietary restrictions and activity limitations.
  7. Patient follows up with the surgeon for a post-operative visit to ensure proper healing and discuss any concerns.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. Is robotic single-site cholecystectomy a suitable option for my specific case of benign gallbladder disease?
  2. What are the potential advantages of robotic single-site cholecystectomy compared to conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy?
  3. Are there any potential risks or complications associated with robotic single-site cholecystectomy that I should be aware of?
  4. How experienced are you and your team in performing robotic single-site cholecystectomy procedures?
  5. How long is the typical recovery time after undergoing robotic single-site cholecystectomy?
  6. Will I have any visible scars after the procedure, and if so, how noticeable will they be?
  7. What is the cost difference between robotic single-site cholecystectomy and conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy?
  8. Are there any specific pre-operative or post-operative instructions I should follow to prepare for robotic single-site cholecystectomy?
  9. How soon after the procedure can I resume normal activities and return to work?
  10. Are there any lifestyle changes I should consider making after undergoing robotic single-site cholecystectomy?

Reference

Authors: Jang EJ, Kang SH, Kim KW. Journal: JSLS. 2023 Oct-Dec;27(4):e2023.00043. doi: 10.4293/JSLS.2023.00043. PMID: 38045820