The Evolution of Minimally Invasive Robotic Surgery in the Last 20 Years

Abstract

The minimally invasive approach has represented a game-changing innovation in surgery, with laparoscopy becoming a core technique in the colorectal field. Robotic-assisted technology was launched at the dawn of the new millennium, demonstrating considerable advantages compared to laparoscopy in terms of visualization, manipulation and ergonomics. This paper reviews the evolution of robotic technology over the last few decades, with a special focus on colorectal surgery.