Advances in Transanal Quasi-Single-Port Surgery Robotic Systems: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

This review highlights the advantages of transanal quasi-single-port surgery (taQSPS) and offers a comprehensive analysis of the development, current applications, and future trends of robotic systems utilized in taQSPS. Timely surgical intervention is crucial for optimal outcomes in rectal cancer treatment, with techniques evolving from open surgery to endoscopic surgery and, more recently, to taQSPS. This innovative technique accesses lesions via a transanal route while utilizing instruments and methods similar to those in single-port surgery (SPS). Building on this foundation, SPS robotic surgical systems have emerged as a promising advancement for taQSPS, offering enhanced precision and maneuverability. However, despite their progress, general-purpose SPS robotic systems are often limited by their bulky design and lack of adaptability to the rectal cavity. In contrast, specialized taQSPS robotic systems are tailored to transanal procedures’ unique anatomical and operational demands, making them highly suitable for such surgeries. This review highlights the potential of specialized taQSPS robotic systems, serving as a valuable reference for researchers and clinicians, and aims to promote further development and adoption of these systems in clinical practice.