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About

Francesca Costa is a pioneering surgeon whose work has fundamentally reshaped the landscape of minimally invasive pancreatic surgery. Her research centers on the safety, feasibility, and technical optimization of robotic-assisted pancreatic resections, with a particular focus on complex procedures like pancreatoduodenectomy. Costa’s major contributions include demonstrating that robotic assistance can enhance surgical dexterity and potentially broaden the adoption of laparoscopy for pancreatic resections, a traditionally high-risk area. Her landmark 2016 study on robotic-assisted pancreatic resections, cited 87 times, established critical benchmarks for feasibility and safety. She further advanced the field with a 2017 propensity score-matched analysis comparing robotic versus open pancreatoduodenectomy, which provided key insights into reducing postoperative pancreatic fistula—a major complication. Costa’s work also explores the learning curve for first-generation robotic surgeons, as seen in her 2025 study on achieving competency and mastery, and she has innovated by applying robotic techniques to tumors in challenging posterosuperior liver segments. Her analysis of instrument traffic during robotic procedures highlights her commitment to refining surgical workflow. With a career dedicated to pushing the boundaries of robotic surgery, Costa’s research continues to guide safer, more effective practices in hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery.