Robot-Assisted Surgery for Noncancerous Gynecologic Conditions

ABSTRACT: For noncancerous conditions, such as hysterectomy, a minimally invasive approach to gynecologic surgery has well-documented advantages—including faster return to normal activities, decreased length of stay, and better quality of life—compared with an abdominal approach. Although the quality of data for robot-assisted surgery is still low to moderate, the use of robot-assisted surgery has rapidly increased since its approval, which highlights the need to develop effective and thoughtful strategies for its implementation. Reporting of adverse events currently is voluntary and nonstandardized; therefore, the true rate of complications is not known. Adoption of new surgical techniques should be driven by what is best for the patient and by evidence-based medicine, rather than external pressures. Although training in robot-assisted surgery increasingly is incorporated into obstetric and gynecologic residency programs, exposure to and training with robotic devices varies nationally. Obstetrician–gynecologists not previously trained in robot-assisted surgery can acquire the necessary skills through independent robot-assisted training programs and through courses offered and accredited by organizations such as the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the Society of Gynecologic Surgeons, the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists, the Society of Gynecologic Oncology, and the American Urogynecologic Society. Ongoing quality assurance is essential to ensure appropriate use of the technology and, most importantly, patient safety. Well-designed studies are needed to determine which patients are most likely to benefit from robot-assisted surgery over other minimally invasive approaches.