Robotic versus open liver resections: A case-matched comparison

BackgroundMost hepatic resections are currently performed using an open approach. Robotic surgery might enable the transition of these procedures to minimally invasive surgery. MethodsPre-, peri- and post-operative data of all patients who underwent a liver resection from 2009/2012 to 2001/2015, were collected prospectively. All robotic resection patients were matched 1:1 to patients who underwent open surgery. Pre- and perioperative data, up to 30days, were analyzed. ResultsSixteen robotic and open hepatic resections were identified. Fewer complication events and shorter lengths of stay (LOS, 7.9 versus 11days, P=0.0603) were observed for robotic resections. Length of stay in the intermediate care unit (IMC) was shorter after the robotic procedure (10h vs 16.6h, P=0.0699). Operating room (OR) time was significantly longer in the robotic resection cohort (352.8 vs 239.6min, P=0.0215). All tumor margins were negative. ConclusionsThis preliminary comparison demonstrates the general feasibility of minor robotic liver resection in selected cases.