Robotic-assisted hepatic resection: a systematic review

Background Currently, hepatic resections are being performed with robotic‐assisted systems. There is little evidence regarding the outcomes of this surgical approach. This study aims to systematically review the outcomes related to robotic‐assisted hepatic resections. Methods A systematic search of electronic databases was completed. All human studies, limited to adults, published between 2000 to August 2011 were included. Results Eight studies yielded a total of 170 procedures. The overall morbidity rate was 11.6% (range 0–39%). There were no mortalities reported following robotic‐assisted hepatic resection. Mean operative time was 264.8 minutes, with a mean hospital length of stay of 7.8 days. Rate of conversion was 6.6%. Cost was greater than either laparoscopy or open hepatic surgery. Conclusions Our systematic review suggests robotic‐assisted hepatic resection is safe and feasible, with low mortality and morbidity rates. Further research is needed to determine if oncological outcomes are similar. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.