Robotic pancreas transplantation: the state of the art

Abstract

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Robotic pancreas transplantation is a novel procedure that aims to reduce surgical invasiveness, and thereby limit complications related to the surgical access. Given that few centers are providing robotic transplantation, this review serves as a state of the science article to outline early experiences and highlight areas for future research. RECENT FINDINGS: Pancreas transplantation results in relatively high rates of wound and other surgical complications that are known to deleteriously impact outcomes. The minimally invasive, robotic-assisted approach decreases wound complications. Because of the obesity epidemic, overweight and obese status is encountered in an increasing number of transplant candidates. These candidates are subject to increased wound-related complications and most benefit from a robotic approach. The first clinical reports on laparoscopic, robotic-assisted kidney and pancreas transplantation indicate a significant decrease in wound complications and excellent outcomes in obese patients otherwise denied access to transplantation. SUMMARY: With excellent results achieved in surgically challenging patients and further accumulation of experience, laparoscopic, robotic-assisted pancreas and kidney transplantation may evolve to a new standard approach.