Robotic liver resection: recent developments

Abstract

Purpose of Review The popularity of robotic liver surgery has vastly increased in the last decade with the aim to overcome the disadvantages of laparoscopic liver surgery using inherent advantages of robotic technology including improved dexterity, enhanced range of motion and better vision. The purpose of this review is to assess the current literature on robotic liver resection and present its perioperative outcomes, oncologic outcomes, learning curve, cost effectiveness and limitations. Recent Findings Several articles have been published on different aspects of robotic liver resection in the recent years. High cost associated with robotic equipment is a major drawback, however, decreased perioperative morbidity and lower costs reported in recent articles hints a trend towards acceptable cost. In terms of perioperative outcomes, robotic liver resection was reported to be superior to open liver resection and comparable to laparoscopic liver resection. Regarding oncologic outcomes, robotic liver resection was found to be equal compared to open and laparoscopic resection.