Robotic Surgery in Gynecology

Abstract

Advanced laparoscopic procedures for gynecologic surgery have not been widely adopted in clinical practice despite nearly 20 years of improvements in laparoscopic technology. The da Vinci® robotic surgical system was cleared for use in gynecologic surgery in the U.S in 2005. Many surgeons have embraced da Vinci® technology over conventional laparoscopy because of its technologic advantages of wristed instrumentation, high definition 3-D optics, ergonomics, and autonomy of camera control. Furthermore, many surgeons with limited advanced laparoscopic skills have successfully converted their practice from primarily laparotomy to minimally invasive surgery using the da Vinci® System. The purpose of this article is to review the development of robotic procedures in gynecology through the current literature. This article reviews recent peer-reviewed literature concerning robotic-assisted laparoscopic procedures including hysterectomy, myomectomy, radical hysterectomy, pelvic and aortic lymphadenectomy, trachelectomy, parametrectomy, tubal anastamosis, sacrocolpopexy, and others. The majority of this literature consists of descriptive retrospective case series from the investigator's early experience; in fact these early reports represent innovation of a new operative technique. Some reports compare outcomes to open and standard laparoscopic procedures. Future prospective studies comparing complications, pain, return to routine activity, and long-term clinical outcomes with open and laparoscopic procedures will be necessary to completely appreciate the impact of robotic technology.