Priv.-Doz. Dr. med. Hans Fuchs writes on promise of Activ Sight in article published in Der Chirurg

Alexander Urbanski · Benjamin Babic · Wolfgang Schröder · Lars Schiffmann · Dolores T. Müller · Christiane J. Bruns · Hans F. Fuchs

Department and Polyclinic for General, Visceral, Tumor and Transplant Surgery, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany

Surgery

https://doi.org/10.1007/s00104-020-01317-1

© Springer Medical Publishing LLC, a part of Springer Nature 2020

Editor

C.J. Bruns, Cologne

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Summary · Abstract

Abstract

Introduction. Robotic systems were introduced into visceral surgery more than 20 years ago.

Shortly thereafter, in 2003, Horgan performed the first robot-assisted esophagus resection in Chicago. The objective of this article is to present new techniques and training methods in robot-assisted surgery with a cost-benefit analysis using the example of the Ivor Lewis esophagectomy.

Methods. We performed a systematic literature search regarding new technologies in the field of robotic surgery and a cost analysis of the intraoperative consumable materials for both the hybrid Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy and the robot-assisted Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy.

Results. Robot-assisted esophageal surgery is complex and involves an extensive learning phase, which can be significantly shortened with modern training methods. New robotic systems focus on the use of image-guided surgery and artificial intelligence. Robot-assisted procedures for esophageal tumors are significantly more expensive than comparable procedures without this technology.

Conclusion. Oncological short-term and long-term benefits for patients after robot-assisted procedures on the upper gastrointestinal tract must be further evaluated to justify the use of robotic technology.

Key words

Robotics · Esophageal cancer · Medical technology · Minimally invasive surgery · Hybrid esophagectomy

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