Robotic-Assisted Surgery in Gynecological Oncology.
BACKGROUND
Robotic-assisted surgery is a technological advancement, and its use is rapidly expanding into the field of gynecological oncology. However, a paucity of evidence exists to prove its superiority over standard laparoscopy. Its cost is also high and it lacks haptic feedback.


METHODS
A systematic review of the relevant literature was undertaken to understand the use of robotic-assisted surgery in gynecological oncology.


RESULTS
Robotic-assisted surgery is being used for select cases of endometrial cancer and has resulted in the increased utilization of minimally invasive surgery for such patients. Use of robotic-assisted surgery among patients who are obese has led to decreased complication rates. Robotic-assisted surgery appears to be more expensive than traditional laparoscopy; however, there are potential cost savings to robotic-assisted surgery, including shorter hospital stays and fewer complications, compared with laparotomy.


CONCLUSIONS
The gynecological oncology community is rapidly accepting the use of robotic-assisted surgery. Although randomized controlled trials are lacking, the technology appears to be safe and effective, and it has equivalent oncological outcomes in this patient population.
Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL 33612, USA. Sachin.Apte@Moffitt.org.
Stephen H
SH
Bush
Sachin M
SM
Apte
D005260:Female; D005833:Genital Neoplasms, Female / Q000601:surgery*; D013509:Gynecologic Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D065287:Robotic Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods*