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The use of deep learning makes it possible to achieve extraordinary results in all kinds of tasks related to computer vision. However, this performance is strongly related to the availability of training data and its relationship with the distribution in the eventual application scenario. This question is of vital importance in areas such as robotics, where the targeted environment data are barely available in advance. In this context, domain adaptation (DA) techniques are especially important to building models that deal with new data for which the corresponding label is not available. To promote further research in DA techniques applied to robotics, this work presents Kurcuma (Kitchen Utensil Recognition Collection for Unsupervised doMain Adaptation), an assortment of seven datasets for the classification of kitchen utensils—a task of relevance in home-assistance robotics and a suitable showcase for DA. Along with the data, we provide a broad description of the main characteristics of the dataset, as well as a baseline using the well-known domain-adversarial training of neural networks approach. The results show the challenge posed by DA on these types of tasks, pointing to the need for new approaches in future work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parental involvement in traditional autism therapy is key to the effective treatment of children with ASD. Little is known about parental involvement in robot-assisted autism therapy (RAAT)—novel therapeutic support for children with ASD. Our study investigates the effect of parental presence on multiple-session RAAT conducted with 16 children with ASD. They interacted with the social robot in the presence or absence of their parents. We measured children's socio-behavioral outcomes and conducted semi-structured interviews with parents. Parents did not necessarily affect the children's outcomes during the interventions. However, children's autism-related symptoms resulted in different socio-behavioral outcomes between sessions with and without parents. Most parents have reported positive changes in their children's behaviors when interacting with the robot. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed at assessing perioperative results of robot-assisted laparoscopy (RAL) in the context of deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE).Methods: This retrospective French multicentric study included all patients with DIE who underwent surgical treatment managed by RAL (Da Vinci® System). From November 2008 to June 2019, patients were included in a single European database, in Robotic Assisted Laparoscopic Gynecologic Surgery, with Society of European Robotic Gynecological Surgery collaboration. Patients had different DIE sites as follows: gynecological, urological, or digestive, or combinations of these. Surgical procedures and perioperative complications were evaluated. To assess complications, patients were divided into the following four groups according to surgical procedure and DIE site: gynecological only; gynecological and urological; gynecological and digestive; and gynecological, urological, and digestive.Results: A total of 460 patients treated at one of eight health-care facilities from November 2008 to June 2019 were included. Median operative time was 245 min (IQR 186-320), surgeon console time was 138 ± 75 min and estimated blood loss was 70.0 mL ± 107 mL. Among this patient sample, 42.1% had a multidisciplinary surgical approach with a digestive or urology surgeon in addition to gynecology surgeon (25.5% and 16.6% of cases, respectively). Among those with intraoperative complications (n = 25, 5.4%) were primarily conversion to laparotomy (n = 6, 2.0%), transfusion (n = 2, 0.6%), and organ wounds (n = 8, 1.7%). Overall, 5.6% had severe postoperative complications (Clavien-Dindo classification ≥ Grade 3).Conclusion: This is among the largest published series addressing RAL for DIE. Interest in this procedure appears promising, with no observed increases in blood loss or in peri- or post-operative complications. DIE laparoscopic surgery can require complex surgical procedures performed by multidisciplinary surgical teams. Thus, it may be one of the best candidates for RAL within gynecology surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Most currently used surgical robots have no force feedback; the next generation displays forces visually. A novel single-port robotic surgical system called FLEXMIN has been developed. Through an outer diameter of 38 mm, two instruments are teleoperated from a surgeon's control console including true haptic force feedback. One additional channel incorporates a telescope, another is free for special instrument functions.Methods: This randomized cross-over study analyzed the effect of haptic feedback on the application of intracorporeal forces. In a standardized experiment setup, the subjects had to draw circles with the surgical robot as gently as possible. The applied forces, the required time spans, and predefined error rates were measured.Results: Without haptic feedback, the maximum forces (median/IQR) were 6.43 N/2.96 N. With haptic feedback, the maximum forces were lower (3.57 N/1.94 N, p < 0.001). Also, the arithmetic means of the force progression (p < 0.001) and their standard deviations (p < 0.001) were lower. Not significant were the shorter durations and lower error rates. No sequence effect of force or duration was detected. No characteristic learning or fatigue curve was observed.Conclusions: In the experiment setup, the true haptic force feedback can reduce the applied intracorporeal robotic force to one-half when considering the aspects maximum, means, and standard deviation. Other test tasks are needed to validate the influence of force feedback on surgical efficiency and safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The recent development of 3D vision in laparoscopic and robotic surgical systems raises the question of whether these two procedures are equivalent. The aim of this study was to evaluate the surgical and long-term oncological outcomes of 3D laparoscopic (3D-LLR) and robotic liver resection (RLR) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).Methods: The data for operative time, morbidity, margins, and survival were reviewed for 3D-LLR and compared with RLR.Results: From 2011 to 2017, 93 patients with HCC, including 58 (62%) with cirrhosis, underwent 3D-LLR [49 (53%)] or RLR [44 (47%)]. No difference was observed in operative time (269 vs. 252 min; p = 0.52), overall (27% vs. RLR: 16%; p = 0.49) and severe morbidity (4% vs. 2%; p = 0.77) or in the surgical margin width (9 vs. 11 mm; p = 0.30) between the 3D-LLR and RLR groups. The 3-year overall and recurrence-free survival rates after 3D-LLR and RLR were 82% and 24% and 91% (p = 0.16) and 48% (p = 0.18), respectively.Conclusions: The 3D-LLR and RLR systems provide comparable surgical margins with similar short- and long-term oncological outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Stray energy transfer from surgical monopolar radiofrequency energy instruments can cause unintended thermal injuries during laparoscopic surgery. Single-incision laparoscopic surgery transfers more stray energy than traditional laparoscopic surgery. There is paucity of published data concerning stray energy during single-incision robotic surgery. The purpose of this study was to quantify stray energy transfer during traditional, multiport robotic surgery (TRS) compared to single-incision robotic surgery (SIRS).Methods: An in vivo porcine model was used to simulate a multiport or single-incision robotic cholecystectomy (DaVinci Si, Intuitive Surgical, Sunnyvale, CA). A 5 s, open air activation of the monopolar scissors was done on 30 W and 60 W coag mode (ForceTriad, Covidien-Medtronic, Boulder, CO) and Swift Coag effect 3, max power 180 W (VIO 300D, ERBE USA, Marietta, GA). Temperature of the tissue (°C) adjacent to the tip of the assistant grasper or the camera was measured with a thermal camera (E95, FLIR Systems, Wilsonville, OR) to quantify stray energy transfer.Results: Stray energy transfer was greater in the SIRS setup compared to TRS setup at the assistant grasper (11.6 ± 3.3 °C vs. 8.4 ± 1.6 °C, p = 0.013). Reducing power from 60 to 30 W significantly reduced stray energy transfer in SIRS (15.3 ± 3.4 °C vs. 11.6 ± 3.3 °C, p = 0.023), but not significantly for TRS (9.4 ± 2.5 °C vs. 8.4 ± 1.6 °C, p = 0.278). The use of a constant voltage regulating generator also minimized stray energy transfer for both SIRS (0.7 ± 0.4 °C, p < 0.001) and TRS (0.7 ± 0.4 °C, p < 0.001).Conclusions: More stray energy transfer occurs during single-incision robotic surgery than multiport robotic surgery. Utilizing a constant voltage regulating generator minimized stray energy transfer for both setups. These data can be used to guide robotic surgeons in their use of safe, surgical energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Minimally invasive resection of rectal cancer is controversial due to concerns of the oncologic efficacy and the difficulties of a laparoscopic total mesorectal excision (TME).Methods: Using the National Cancer Database (NCDB), for the period 2010-2015, perioperative outcomes and overall survival (OS) in patients with rectal cancer who underwent laparoscopic or robotic low anterior resection (LLAR or RLAR) were compared to open LAR (OLAR) after propensity score matching.Results: 26,047 patients underwent LAR: 4062 (16%) RLAR, 9236 (35%) LLAR, and 12,749 (49%) OLAR. Patient and clinical tumor characteristics were similar between groups after matching. The conversion rates among patients undergoing LLAR and RLAR were 15% and 8%, respectively. In matched OLAR and LLAR patients, longitudinal and circumferential resection margins (CRM) were positive in 5.4% and 3.2% (p < 0.001) and 5.5% and 4.1% (p < 0.001); length of stay was 6 and 5 days, (p < 0.001); readmission was required in 6.5% and 7.0% (p = 0.112); OS at 1, 3, and 5 years were 95.5%, 83.7%, and 72.0% and 95.9%, 86.3%, and 76.4%, respectively (p < 0.001). In matched OLAR and RLAR patients, longitudinal and CRM were positive in 5.4% and 3.2% (p < 0.001) and 5.5% and 3.9% (p < 0.001); length of stay was 6 and 5 days (p < 0.001); readmission was required in 6.1% and 7.9%, (p = 0.010); and OS at 1, 3, and 5 years were 96.2%, 86.5%, and 77.1% and 97.5%, 89.4%, and 79.7%, respectively (p = 0.001).Conclusions: In this national sample of propensity matched patients with rectal cancer who underwent open, laparoscopic, or robotic sphincter-saving rectal resection, only small differences in terms of resection margin status, length of stay, readmission, and overall survival were revealed. With acknowledgement of the limitations introduced by selection bias, our data indicate that each of the evaluated operative techniques results in acceptable outcomes for patients with rectal cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Robot-assisted total knee arthroplasty (rTKA) remains in its infancy, is expensive but offers the promise of improved kinematic performance through precise bone cuts, with minimal soft tissue disruption, based on pre-resection soft tissue behaviour. This cadaveric study examined load transfer, soft tissue performance and radiographic indices for conventional (sTKA) versus rTKA. The null hypothesis was there would be no difference between the two modes of implantation.Methods: Whole (ten) cadaveric limbs were randomised to receive either robotic (rTKA, N = 5) or conventional measured resection (sTKA, N = 5) knee arthroplasty. Laxity patterns were established using validated fixed sensors (Verasense) with manual maximum displacement for six degrees of freedom. Tibiofemoral load and contact points were determined dynamically using remote sensor technology for medial and lateral compartments through a functional arc of motion (0-110 degrees of motion). Final component position was assessed using pre- and post-implantation CT.Results: No significant intergroup differences for laxity were found (n.s.). The rTKA group exhibited consistently balanced mediolateral load throughout the full arc with significantly reduced overall total load across the joint (for distinct points of measurement, p < 0.05). Despite using flexion-extension and mediolateral gap balancing with measured resection, the sTKA group failed to achieve balance in at least three points of the flexion arc. Post-operative CT confirmed satisfactory component alignment with no significant differences for positioning between the two groups.Conclusion: This work found improved load sharing for rTKA when compared to conventional surgery for same donor knees. Laxity and CT determined final component positioning was not significantly different. The work supports the contention that robot-assisted TKA delivers improved tibiofemoral load sharing in time zero studies under defined conditions but such offers the promise of improved clinical performance and reduced implant wear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Several clinical tests exist to assess knee laxity. Although these assessments are the predominant tools of diagnosis, they are subjective and rely on the experience of the clinician. The robotic knee testing (RKT) device has been developed to quantitatively and objectively measure rotational knee laxity. The purpose of this study was primarily to determine the intra-tester reliability of rotational knee laxity and slack, the amount of rotation occurring between the two turning points of the load deformation curve, measured by the RKT device and investigate the differences between female and male measurements. Methods: Ninety-one healthy and moderately active volunteers took part in the study, of which twenty-five participated in the reliability study. Tibial rotation was performed using a servomotor to a torque of 6 N m, while measurements of motion in all 6° of freedom were collected. Reliability measurements were collected over 5 days at similar times of the day. Intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) values and standard error of measurement (SEM) were determined across the load deformation curves. Linear mixed effects modelling was used to further assess the reliability of the measurement of external and internal tibial rotation using features of the curve (internal/external rotational laxity and slack). Measurements of internal/external rotational laxity and slack were compared between the sexes using the Student t test. Results: Pointwise axial rotation measurements of the tibia had good reliability [ICC (2,1) 0.83–0.89], while reliability of the secondary motions ranged between poor and good [ICC (2,1) 0.31–0.89]. All SEMs were less than 0.3°. Most of the variation of the curve features were accounted for by inter-subject differences (56.2–77.8%) and showed moderate to good reliability. Comparison of the right legs of the sexes revealed that females had significantly larger amounts of internal rotation laxity (females 6.1 ± 1.3° vs males 5.6 ± 0.9°, p = 0.037), external rotation laxity (females 6.0 ± 1.6° vs males 5.0 ± 1.2°, p = 0.002) and slack (females 19.2 ± 4.2° vs males 16.6 ± 2.9°, p = 0.003). Similar results were seen within the left legs. Conclusions: Overall, the RKT is a reliable and precise tool to assess the rotational laxity of the knee joint in healthy individuals. Finally, greater amounts of laxity and slack were also reported for females. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Utilization of robotic-assisted inguinal hernia repair (IHR) has increased in recent years, but randomized or prospective studies comparing outcomes and cost of laparoscopic and Robotic-IHR are still lacking. With conflicting results from only five retrospective series available in the literature comparing the two approaches, the question remains whether current robotic technology provides any added benefits to treat inguinal hernias. We aimed to compare perioperative outcomes and costs of Robotic-IHR versus laparoscopic totally extraperitoneal IHR (Laparoscopic-IHR).Methods: Retrospective analysis of consecutive patients who underwent Robotic-IHR or Laparoscopic-IHR at a dedicated MIS unit in the USA from February 2015 to June 2017. Demographics, anthropometrics, the proportion of bilateral and recurrent hernias, operative details, cost, length of stay, 30-day readmissions and reoperations, and rates and severity of complications were compared.Results: 183 patients had surgery: 45 (24.6%) Robotic-IHR and 138 (75.4%) Laparoscopic-IHR. There were no differences between groups in age, gender, BMI, ASA class, the proportion of bilateral hernias and recurrent hernias, and length of stay. Operative time (Robotic-IHR: 116 ± 36 min, vs. Laparoscopic-IHR: 95±44 min, p < 0.01), reoperations (Robotic-IHR: 6.7%, vs. Laparoscopic-IHR: 0%, p = 0.01), and readmissions rates were greater for Robotic-IHR. While the overall perioperative complication rate was similar in between groups (Robotic-IHR: 28.9% vs. Laparoscopic-IHR: 18.1%, p = 0.14), Robotic-IHR was associated with a significantly greater proportion of grades III and IV complications (Robotic-IHR: 6.7% vs. Laparoscopic-IHR: 0%, p = 0.01). Total hospital cost was significantly higher for the Robotic-IHRs ($9993 vs. $5994, p < 0.01). The added cost associated with the robotic device itself was $3106 per case and the total cost of disposable supplies was comparable between the 2 groups.Conclusions: In the setting in which it was studied, the outcomes of Laparoscopic-IHR were significantly superior to the Robotic-IHR, at lower hospital costs. Laparoscopic-IHR remains the preferred minimally invasive surgical approach to treat inguinal hernias. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Minimally invasive single-port surgery is often associated with large incisions up to 2-3 cm, complicated handling due to the lack of triangulation, and instrument crossing. Aim of this prospective study was to perform true single-port surgery (cholecystectomy) without the use of assisting trocars using a new surgical platform that allows for triangulation incorporating robotic features, and to measure the perioperative outcome and cosmetic results.Methods: As the first European site after FDA and CE-mark approval, the new device has been introduced to our academic center. In patients with cholecystitis and cholecystolithiasis, the operation was performed through only one 15-mm trocar. For patients safety, intraoperative cholangiography using intravenous ICG and a standard Stryker 1588 system was routinely performed.Results: Symphonx was used in n = 12 patients for abdominal surgery (6 females, mean age 42.5 [30-77], mean BMI 26.2 [19.3-38.9]. A total of 8 patients underwent surgery using no additional ports besides the 15-mm trocar; in the remaining patients, one assisting instrument (3-5 mm) was used. Mean OR time was 107 [72-221] minutes. The postoperative course was uneventful in 11 patients; in one patient, a seroma at the surgical site required interventional drainage 1 month postoperatively. No intraoperative complications occurred.Conclusion: This is the first human case series using the commercially available symphonX platform for abdominal laparoscopic surgery and the first series using the system without assisting instruments. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy in patients with cholecystitis and cholecystolithiasis using the symphonX platform through only one 15-mm trocar is feasible, safe, and more cost-efficient compared to robotic platforms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Few studies have investigated the potential impact of robotic assistance on cognitive ergonomics during advanced minimally invasive surgery. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of robotic assistance on mental workload and downstream cognitive performance in surgical trainees.Methods: Robot-naïve trainees from general surgery, urology and gynaecology, stratified by specialty and level of training, were randomised to either laparoscopic surgery (LS) or robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery (RALS) and performed a time-limited, complex laparoscopic suturing task after watching a 5-min instructional video. The RALS group received an additional 5-min orientation to the robotic console. Subjective mental workload was measured using NASA Task Load Index. Concentration and executive cognitive function were assessed using Psychomotor Vigilance Task (PVT) and Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST), respectively. A p value of 0.05 was considered significant.Results: Sixteen senior residents (SR; ≥ PGY3) and 14 junior residents (JR; PGY1-2) completed the study. There was no difference in mental workload between LS and RALS. Within JR there was no difference in task completion time comparing LS versus RALS; however, LS was associated with impaired concentration post-task versus pre-task (PVT reaction time 306 versus 324 ms, p = 0.03), which was not observed for RALS. In contrast, amongst SR, RALS took significantly longer than LS (10.3 vs. 14.5 min, p = 0.02) and was associated with significantly worse performance on WCST (p < 0.01).Conclusions: Robotic assistance, in this setting, did not provide a technical performance advantage nor impact subjective mental workload with novice users regardless of level of surgery training. We observed a protective effect on cognitive performance offered by RALS to junior trainees with limited LS experience, yet a detrimental effect on senior trainees with greater LS ability and inadequate pre-study robotic training, suggesting that robotic consoles may be mentally taxing for robotic novices and consideration should be given to formal console training prior to initial clinical exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Few investigations to date assessing the effectiveness of robot-assisted intersphincteric resection (ISR) have included sufficient patients and follow-up period. This study assessed the utility and safety of robot-assisted ISR by comparing groups of patients who underwent low anterior resection (LAR) with or without ISR and ISR extent.Methods: This study enrolled 897 patients who underwent curative LAR between 2010 and 2017. Patients were divided into those who did (ISR+) and did not (ISR-) undergo ISR, with the former group subdivided by ISR extent (partial, subtotal, and total). Tumor recurrence and survival were compared in the two groups by one-to-one nearest neighbor matching (218 patients each).Results: Robot-assisted ISR was performed via an entirely transabdominal approach in 93% of patients who underwent LAR. The rate of circumferential margin positivity was ≤ 2% in all patients and did not differ in the ISR- and ISR+ groups or in the three ISR+ subgroups. Mean fecal incontinence score and manometric values deteriorated significantly during postoperative until 12-24 months (p < 0.05 to < 0.001), but recovered subsequently. The 5-year cumulative rates of local recurrence in the ISR+ and ISR- groups were 2.5% and 2.9%, respectively (p = 0.731). The 5-year cumulative rates of overall (86.7% vs. 84.2%, p = 0.899) and disease-free (80.7% vs. 78.5%, p = 0.934) survival did not differ significantly in the ISR+ and ISR- groups.Conclusions: Because ISR involves resection of low-lying tumors and complex pelvic dissection, robot-assisted ISR via a mostly transabdominal procedure may be technically more efficient, providing lasting anorectal function and good oncologic outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: This study compares the impact of open (OIHR) versus laparoscopic (LIHR) inguinal hernia repair on healthcare spending and postoperative outcomes.Methods: The TRUVEN database was queried using ICD9 procedure codes for open, laparoscopic, and robotic-assisted IHR, from 2012 to 2013. Patients > 18 years of age and continuously enrolled for 12 months postoperatively were included. Demographics, patient comorbidities, postoperative complications, pain medication use, length of hospital stay, missed work hours, postoperative visits, and overall expenditure were collected, and assessed at time of surgery and at 30-, 60-, 90-, 180-, and 365-days postoperatively. Statistical analysis was conducted using SAS, with α = 0.05.Results: 66,116 patients were included (LIHR: N = 23,010; OIHR: N = 43,106). Robotic-assisted procedures were excluded due to small sample size (N = 61). The largest demographic was males between 55 and 64 years. LIHR had fewer surgical wound complications than OIHR (LIHR: 0.3%; OIHR: 0.5%, p = 0.007), less utilization of pain medication (LIHR: 23.3%; OIHR: 28.5%; p < 0.001), and fewer outpatient visits. In the 90-day postoperative period, LIHR had significantly fewer missed work hours (LIHR: 12.1 ± 23.2 h; OIHR: 12.9 ± 26.7 h, p = 0.023). LIHR had higher postoperative urinary complications (LIHR: 0.2%; OIHR: 0.1%; p < 0.001), consistent with the current literature. LIHR expenditures ($15,030 ± $25,906) were higher than OIHR ($13,303 ± 32,014), p < 0.001.Conclusions: The results highlight the benefits of laparoscopic repair with regard to surgical wound complications, postoperative pain, outpatient visits, and missed work hours. These improved outcomes with respect to overall healthcare spending and employee absenteeism support the paradigm shift toward laparoscopic inguinal hernia repairs, in spite of higher overall expenditures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) has demonstrated superior outcomes compared to open approaches. The myriad of techniques has precluded the recommendation of a standard approach. The addition of robotics to esophageal resection has potential benefits. We sought to examine the outcomes with MIE to include robotics.Methods: Utilizing a prospective esophagectomy database, we identified patients who underwent (MIE) Ivor Lewis via thoracoscopic/laparoscopic (TL), transhiatal (TH), or robotic-assisted Ivor Lewis (RAIL). Patient demographics, tumor characteristics, and complications were analyzed via ANOVA, χ2, and Fisher exact where appropriate.Results: We identified 302 patients who underwent MIE: TL 95 (31.5%), TH 63 (20.8%), and RAIL 144 (47.7%) with a mean age of 65 ± 9.6. The length of operation was longer in the RAIL: TL (299 ± 87), TH (231 ± 65), RAIL (409 ± 104 min), p < 0.001. However, the EBL was lower in the patients undergoing transthoracic approaches (RAIL + TL): TL (189 ± 188 ml), TH (242 ± 380 ml), RAIL (155 ± 107 ml), p = 0.03. Conversion to open was also lower in these patients: TL 7 (7.4%), TH 8 (12.7%), RAIL 0, p < 0.001. The R0 resection rate and lymph node (LN) harvest also favored the RAIL cohort: TL 86 (93.5%), TH 60 (96.8%), and RAIL 144 (100%), p = 0.01; LN: TL 14 ± 7, TH 9 ± 6, and RAIL 20 ± 9, p < 0.001. The overall morbidity was lower in MIE patients that underwent a transthoracic approach vs. transhiatal: TL 29 (30.5%), TH 39 (61.9%), RAIL 34 (23.6%), p < 0.001.Conclusions: Patients undergoing MIE via thoracoscopic/laparoscopic and robotic transthoracic approaches demonstrated lower EBL, morbidity, and conversion to open compared to the transhiatal approach. Additionally the oncologic outcomes measured by R0 resections and LN harvest also favored the patients who underwent a transthoracic approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We used a population-based database to: (1) compare clinical and economic outcomes between minimally invasive surgery (MIS) and open surgery (OS) for colectomy; and (2) evaluate contemporary trends in MIS rates.Methods: Retrospective Premier Healthcare Database review of patients undergoing elective inpatient colectomy between January 1, 2010 and September 30, 2017 (first = index admission). Patients were classified into MIS (laparoscopic/robotic) or OS groups, and by left or right colectomy. Propensity score matching (1:1 ratio) of MIS and OS groups was used to address potential confounding from patient/hospital/provider characteristics. Study outcomes, measured during index admission, included major perioperative complications [anastomotic leak (AL), bleeding, infection, and a composite of infection/AL], operating room time (ORT), length of stay (LOS), and total hospital costs.Results: Among 134,970 study-eligible patients, MIS rates increased from ~ 2% (2010) to 19-23% (2017), driven by a > tenfold increase in robotic surgery. The matched MIS and OS colectomy groups comprised 46,708 (left) and 44,560 (right) total patients. Risks of AL, bleeding, and infection were lower for MIS versus OS (all p < 0.001). In left: AL occurred in 7.9% of MIS versus 9.9% of OS; bleeding 7.8% versus 9.7%; infection 3.3% versus 5.8%; infection/AL 9.8% versus 13.3%. In right: AL 8.9% versus 11.1%; bleeding 9.8% versus 10.8%; infection 3.0% versus 5.1%; infection/AL 10.5% versus 10.4%. Although ORTs were longer with MIS (left: 240.8 vs. 216.2 min; right: 192.8 vs. 178.0 min), LOS was shorter (left: 5.4 vs. 7.1 days; right: 5.5 vs. 7.1 days), and total hospital costs were lower (left: $18,564 vs. $19,960; right: $17,375 vs. $19,417) versus OS (all p < 0.001).Conclusions: Compared with OS, MIS was associated with significantly lower risk of major perioperative complications (including AL), lower LOS, and lower total hospital costs, despite longer OR times. MIS colectomy rates have increased over time; recent gains appear to be due to uptake of robotic surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To evaluate the surgical, oncological, and survival outcomes after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) with superior mesenteric vein (SMV)/portal vein (PV) resection by either robotic PD (RPD) or open PD (OPD).Methods: Data of patients with periampullary lesions undergoing PD were retrieved from a prospectively collected computer database. Surgical risks as well as oncological and survival outcomes were compared between patients with (vein resection group) and without SMV/PV resection (without vein resection group).Results: A total of 391 patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy were enrolled, including 43 (11.0%) and 384 (89.0%) patients with and without vein resection, respectively. Eleven (25.6%) of PDs with vein resection were performed using the robotic approach. Operation time in the vein resection group was significantly longer (median of 8 vs. 7 h). Blood loss, curative resection (R0) rate, and harvested lymph node number were similar between these two groups. Surgical outcomes including postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF), delayed gastric emptying (DGE), postpancreatectomy hemorrhage (PPH), chyle leakage, wound infection, and hospital stay were not significantly different between the two groups. There was no survival difference between these groups, with 1- and 3-year survival rates of 92.6% and 26.5%, respectively, for vein resection group, vs. 70.3% and 37.2%, respectively, for the without vein resection group.Conclusions: PD with vein resection is technically feasible by OPD and RPD in selected patients. Additional SMV/PV would not increase the surgical risks of PD and could achieve similar survival outcomes for pancreatic head adenocarcinoma when compared to PD without vein resection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: We compared robotic hepaticojejunostomy anastomosis (RHJA) with laparoscopic hepaticojejunostomy anastomosis (LHJA) in children undergoing complete excision of choledochal cyst.Methods: Difficulty of suturing (DOS) during anastomosis was scored blindly, from intraoperative video recordings, using: 5 = impossible; 4 = difficult; 3 = tedious; 2 = slow; and 1 = easy. A panel of fiveindependent surgeons was also asked to compare RHJA with matched LHJA and score + 1 if RHJA appeared superior to LHJA, 0 if RHJA appeared equivalent to LHJA, and - 1 if RHJA appeared inferior to LHJA.Results: RHJA (n = 10) was performed between 2017 and 2019; LHJA (n = 27) was performed between 2009 and 2018. LHJA cases were matched for age, weight, and anastomosis diameter to RHJA cases. Complete excision was performed laparoscopically in both groups. DOS was lower in RHJA with less variance. The panel all scored RHJA as + 1. Total anastomotic time (TAT) and TAT per suture were significantly shorter for RHJA. Times taken to ambulate and for return of bowel sounds postoperatively were significantly shorter for RHJA. There was one anastomotic leak with LHJA (3.7%) and no anastomotic complications with RHJA.Conclusions: RHJA is a more stable anastomosis that can be performed quicker, and thus, would appear to be superior to LHJA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recovery of the orthostatism after a severe acquired brain injury (sABI) is an essential objective to pursue in order to avoid the occurrence of secondary complications resulting from prolonged immobilization to which the patient is subjected during the acute phase. This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effect of verticalization with the lower limb robot-assisted training system Erigo® versus conventional neurorehabilitation in 44 adult subjects affected by sequelae of sABI in the acute rehabilitation phase, related to cardiorespiratory signs and measures of impairment and activity. At the end of the study (20 treatment sessions, 5 sessions per week), in both groups of patients, there were no dropouts nor adverse events. In subject verticalized with Erigo®, there were no episodes of (pre)syncope from orthostatic hypotension nor postural orthostatic tachycardia and cardiorespiratory signs remained stable; moreover, there were no increase in muscle tone nor reduction in range of motion at lower limbs. Results obtained show improved outcomes on the whole and in a similar way in both groups; however, the improvement in scores of the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, the Tinetti scale, and the Functional Independence Measure from the enrollment to the end of the treatment cycle being equal, the evaluation performed at the 10th session allows to establish that the improvement appears earlier in the intervention group and later in the control group. The more rapid recovery of impairments and some activities in subjects treated with Erigo® could allow a "time-saver" to devote to the rehabilitation of sensory-motor functions which are more complex and subordinated to the preliminary reacquisition of elementary postures and motor strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Transversus abdominis muscle release (TAR) combines retromuscular mesh placement with posterior component separation and muscle release. TAR is usually an open technique for abdominal wall reconstruction; however, several centers have performed this operation robotically and claim better clinical outcomes when compared to open surgery. We sought to compare robotic versus open TAR utilizing a porcine model.Methods: Animals were randomized to open versus robotic TAR with mesh placement, survived for 4 weeks, then underwent diagnostic laparoscopy to assess adhesive burden and adhesion tenacity. T-peel testing was utilized to assess mesh ingrowth. The primary outcome was adhesive burden; secondary outcomes included mesh incorporation, contraction, and operative time.Results: Nine robotic and eight open TARs were performed. Mean operative time was significantly shorter for the open cases compared to robotic cases (88.6 ± 12.9 min versus 228.3 ± 46.2, p < 0.01). Operative time in the robotic arm of the study decreased over time, from 300 to 165 min. No difference was seen in the mean adhesion area between the two groups. Adhesion tenacity and mesh flatness were similar. The work required to peel the mesh off surrounding tissue was significantly higher in the open TAR than in the robotic TAR group: 52.6 ± 15.5 and 32.9 ± 10.6 mJ/cm2, respectively (p < 0.01).Conclusions: There were no differences in adhesions between the robotic and open approaches, but greater mesh contraction and ingrowth was observed in the open TAR group. Though operative time was longer in the robotic group, time dropped by about 40% from the first case to the last. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of IOUS in robotic liver surgery and propose a standard protocol of IOUS for safe robot-assisted hepatectomy.Methods: Between February 2015 and December 2016, liver resection was performed in 110 patients with robotic approach in Tongji Hospital. In these patients, IOUS was routinely performed. All data about demographic, surgical procedure, postoperative course were collected prospectively and analyzed.Results: A four steps IOUS protocol in robotic liver surgery was proposed, including exploration, verification, guidance, and confirmation. A total of 11 additional lesions in 11 patients were detected and 7 patients accepted strategic surgical modification. No patient suffered from any single or multiple organ dysfunctions, and there were no mortalities observed.Conclusion: IOUS is indispensable to understand lesions and vessels in robotic liver surgery. A four-step standard protocol of IOUS is essential for safe robot-assisted hepatectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare the perioperative outcomes of initial, consecutive robotic-assisted transabdominal preperitoneal (R-TAPP) inguinal hernia repair (IHR) cases with consecutive open cases completed by the same surgeons.Methods: Multicenter, retrospective, comparative study of perioperative results from open and robotic IHR using standard univariate and multivariate regression analyses for propensity score matched (1:1) cohorts.Results: Seven general surgeons at six institutions contributed 602 consecutive open IHR and 652 consecutive R-TAPP IHR cases. Baseline patient characteristics in the unmatched groups were similar with the exception of previous abdominal surgery and all baseline characteristics were comparable in the matched cohorts. In matched analyses, postoperative complications prior to discharge were comparable. However, from post discharge through 30 days, fewer patients experienced complications in the R-TAPP group than in the open group [4.3% vs 7.7% (p = 0.047)]. The R-TAPP group had no reoperations post discharge through 30 days of follow-up compared with five patients (1.1%) in the open group (p = 0.062), respectively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis which demonstrated patient age > 65 years and the open approach were risk factors for complications within 30 days post discharge in the matched group [age > 65 years: odds ratio (OR) = 3.33 (95% CI 1.89, 5.87; p < 0.0001); open approach: OR = 1.89 (95% CI 1.05, 3.38; p = 0.031)].Conclusions: In this matched analysis, R-TAPP provides similar postoperative complications prior to discharge and a lower rate of postoperative complications through 30 days compared to open repair. R-TAPP is a promising and reproducible approach, and may facilitate adoption of minimally invasive repairs of inguinal hernias. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most industrial laser applications utilize computer and robot assistance, for guidance, safety, repeatability, and precision. In contrast, medical applications using laser systems are mostly conducted manually. The advantages can be effective only when the system is coupled to a robotic guidance, as operating by hand does not reach the required accuracy. We currently developed the first laser osteotome which offers preoperative planning based on CT data, robot guidance, and a precise execution of the laser cuts. In an animal trial, our system was used to create a grid pattern of the same depth on the inner layer of parietal bone in 12 adult sheep. The same bone cuts were done with piezoelectric osteotome on the contralateral side. The micro-CT and histological analysis showed more new mineralized bone in the laser group compared to the piezoelectric group. As well, a cutting pattern with especially a constant osteotomy depth in the laser group was demonstrated. The here presented autonomous osteotomy tool shows not only an advantage in early bone healing stage but additionally sharp bone cuts with a very high accuracy and freely selectable design cuts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the stabilizing effect of a lateral meniscus posterior root repair in an ACL and root deficient knee.Methods: The hypothesis of the current study was that a sequential transection of the posterior root and the meniscofemoral ligaments in an ACL-deficient knee increases rotational instability, and conversely, a repair of the meniscus root reduces the internal tibial rotation. Therefore, eight human knee joints were tested in a robotic setup (5 N m internal torque, 50 N m anterior translation load). Five conditions were tested: intact, ACL cut, ACL cut + lateral meniscus posterior root tear (LMRT), ACL cut + LMRT + transection of the MFL and ACL cut + lateral meniscus root repair. The angles of internal tibial rotation as well as anterior tibial translation were recorded.Results: Transection of the lateral meniscus posterior root increased the internal tibial instability as compared to the ACL-insufficient state. A significant increase was detected in 60° and 90° of flextion. Sectioning of the meniscofemoral ligament further destabilized the knees significantly at all flexion angles as compared to the ACL-deficient state. Even in 30°, 60° and 90° a significant difference was detected as compared to the isolated root tear. A tibial fixation of the lateral meniscus root reduced the internal tibial rotation in all flexion angles and led to a significant decrease of internal tibial rotation in 30° and 90° as compared to the transection of the root and the MFL. The anterior tibial translation was increased in all conditions as compared to the native state.Conclusion: A lateral meniscus root repair can reduce internal tibial rotation in the ACL-deficient knee. To check the condition of the lateral posterior meniscus root attachment is clinical relevant as a lateral meniscus root repair might improve rotational stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: General Surgery is currently the fastest growing specialty with regards to robotic surgical system utilization. Contrary to the experience in laparoscopy, simulator training for robotic surgery is not widely employed partly because robotic surgical simulators are expensive. We sought to determine the effect of a robotic simulation curriculum and whether robotic surgical skills could be derived from those psychomotor skills attained in laparoscopic training.Methods: Twenty-seven trainees with no prior robotic experience and limited laparoscopy exposure were randomly assigned to one of three training groups: no simulator training, training on a fundamentals of laparoscopic surgery (FLS™) standard box trainer, and training on a robotic computer based simulator (da Vinci Skills Simulator™). Baseline robotic surgical skills were assessed on the clinical robot docked to a standard FLS trainer box on two tasks-intracorporeal knot tying and peg transfer. Subjects subsequently underwent four 1-h long training sessions in their assigned training environment over a course of several weeks. Robotic surgical skills were reassessed on the robot on the same two tasks used to assess skills prior to training.Results: FLS training resulted in a greater score improvement than no training for both knot and peg scores. FLS training was also determined to result in greater score improvement than robotic simulator training for knot tying. There was no significant difference in peg transfer or knot tying scores when comparing robotic simulator training and no training.Conclusions: Robotic surgical skills can be in part derived from psychomotor skills developed in a laparoscopic trainer, especially for complex skills such as intracorporeal knot tying. Acquisition of robotic surgical skills may be enhanced by practice on a laparoscopic simulator using the FLS curriculum. This may be especially helpful when a robotic simulator is not available or is poorly accessible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The number of robotic surgical procedures performed yearly is constantly rising, due to improved dexterity and visualization capabilities compared with conventional methods. We hypothesized that outcomes after robotic-assisted inguinal hernia repair would not be significantly different from outcomes after laparoscopic or open repair.Methods: All patients undergoing inguinal hernia repair between 2012 and 2016 were identified using institutional American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program data. Demographics; preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative characteristics; and outcomes were evaluated based on method of repair (Robot, Lap, or Open). Categorical variables were analyzed by Chi-square test and continuous variables using Mann-Whitney U.Results: A total of 510 patients were identified who underwent unilateral inguinal hernia repair (Robot: 13.8% [n = 69], Lap: 48.1% [n = 241], Open: 38.1% [n = 191]). There were no demographic differences between groups other than age (Robot: 52 [39-62], Lap: 57 [45-67], and Open: 56 [48-67] years, p = 0.03). Operative duration was also different (Robot: 105 [76-146] vs. Lap: 81 [61-103] vs. Open: 71 [56-88] min, p < 0.001). There were no operative mortalities and all patients except one were discharged home the same day. Postoperative occurrences (adverse events, readmissions, and death) were similar between groups (Robot: 2.9% [2], Lap: 3.3% [8], Open: 5.2% [10], p = 0.53). Although rare, there was a significant difference in rate of postoperative skin and soft tissue infection (Robot: 2.9% [2] vs. Lap: 0% [0] vs. Open: 0.5% [1], p = 0.02). Cost was significantly different between groups (Robot: $7162 [$5942-8375] vs. Lap: $4527 [$2310-6003] vs. Open: $4264 [$3277-5143], p < 0.001).Conclusions: Outcomes after robotic-assisted inguinal hernia repair were similar to outcomes after laparoscopic or open repair. Longer operative duration during robotic repair may contribute to higher rates of skin and soft tissue infection. Higher cost should be considered, along with surgeon comfort level and patient preference when deciding whether inguinal hernia repair is approached robotically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The utilization of robotic platforms for general surgery procedures such as hernia repair is growing rapidly in the United States. A limited amount of data are available evaluating operative outcomes in comparison to standard laparoscopic surgery. We completed a retrospective review comparing robotic and laparoscopic ventral hernia repair to provide safety and outcomes data to help design a future prospective trial design.Methods: A retrospective review of 215 patients undergoing ventral hernia repair (142 robotic and 73 laparoscopic) was completed at two large academic centers. Primary outcome measure evaluated was recurrence. Secondary outcomes included incidence of primary fascial closure, and surgical site occurrences.Results: Propensity for treatment match comparison demonstrated that robotic repair was associated with a decreased incidence of recurrence (2.1 versus 4.2%, p < 0.001) and surgical site occurrence (4.2 versus 18.8%, p < 0.001). This may be because robotic repair was associated with increased incidence of primary fascial closure (77.1 versus 66.7%, p < 0.01). Analysis of baseline patient populations showed that robotic repairs were completed on patients with lower body mass index (28.1 ± 3.6 versus 34.2 ± 6.4, p < 0.001) and fewer comorbidities.Conclusions: Our retrospective data show that robotic repair was associated with decreased recurrence and surgical site occurrence. However, the differences noted in the patient populations limit the interpretability of these results. As adoption of robotic ventral hernia repair increases, prospective trials need to be designed in order to investigate the efficacy, safety, and cost effectiveness of this evolving technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Studies have shown that using robotic-assisted laparoscopy (RL) increases performance compared to conventional laparoscopy (CL) due to its mechanical advantages but have not assessed distraction as a factor. To determine whether the immersive aspect of the 3D optics in RL contributes to improved performance, we compared the outcomes of laparoscopic skills by using just the 3D optics of the da Vinci versus the conventional 2D monitor with and without distraction.Methods: Thirty-two participants without any laparoscopic experience were randomized evenly into four groups: RL, robotic-assisted laparoscopy with distraction (RL + D), CL, and conventional laparoscopy with distraction (CL + D). Each participant performed three Fundamentals of Laparoscopy Surgery tasks [peg transfer (Task 1), circle cutting (Task 2), and suturing with knot (Task 3)] for three repetitions. For each task, the mean time and errors were recorded and analyzed statistically for each group.Results: Compared to other groups, CL + D took on average 1 min longer to complete Task 1 (P = 0.001), more than 1 min to complete Task 2 (P = 0.003), and more than 2 min to complete the Task 3 (P < 0.001). On Task 2, the deviations from the pattern were shorter for RL and RL + D compared to CL and CL + D (mean 0.33 and 0.37 cm vs. 0.55 and 0.58 cm, respectively; P < 0.001). On Task 3, the deviations were also shorter for RL and RL + D compared to CL and CL + D (mean 0.23 and 0.24 mm vs. 0.61 and 0.63 mm, respectively; P < 0.001).Conclusion: When distraction was introduced, CL performed significantly worse. This suggests that using the conventional 2D monitor does not help with blocking out distraction. For Tasks 2 and 3, which require more precision and depth perception, the groups that used the 3D optics had shorter mean deviations than groups that used the conventional 2D monitor. This suggests that even when the robotic arms of the da Vinci are removed, there are still advantages to the immersive 3D optics, especially when distraction is present. The immersive aspect of the 3D optics may help improve performance in the OR, allowing surgeons to be more focused on the case and have greater depth acuity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Minimally invasive sphincter-saving rectal resection represents a challenging procedure. Robotic surgery for rectal cancer has several advantages over conventional surgery in performing precise dissection and was proved to be safe and effective in previous studies. However, comparison between laparoscopic and robotic rectal resection has drawn contradictory results. The aim of the present study was to compare robotic and laparoscopic sphincter-saving rectal resections for short-term and pathological outcomes.Methods: Between January 2013 and May 2016, we performed a total of 258 robotic surgeries, including 146 colorectal resections (56%). For this study, we included the first 65 sphincter-saving robotic resections and compared them to the last 65 consecutive laparoscopic resections. The laparoscopic group was constituted by the last 65 consecutively operated patients who matched the inclusion criteria.Results: Patients' baseline characteristics were similar in both the groups. Conversion rate was greater in the laparoscopic group (17 vs. 5%, p=0.044). Reoperation rate, overall and severe morbidity, and median hospital stay were similar in both the groups. Quality of mesorectal excision specimen was considered complete or near complete in 97 and 96% in the laparoscopic and robotic groups, respectively. There was no difference in the rates of negative circumferential radial margin, distal margin, and surgical success measured by composite criteria.Conclusion: The main finding of this study was that robotic proctectomy for sphincter-saving procedures offers similar quality of TME with a statistically significant lower rate of conversion when compared to laparoscopic proctectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy evolved from the traditional multiport laparoscopic technique. Prior trials have demonstrated improved cosmesis with the single-incision technique. Robotic single-site surgery minimizes the technical difficulties associated with laparoscopic single-incision approach. This is the first prospective, randomized, controlled study comparing robotic single-site cholecystectomy (RSSC) and multiport laparoscopic cholecystectomy (MPLC) in terms of cosmesis and patient satisfaction.Methods: Patients with symptomatic benign gallbladder disease were randomized to RSSC or MPLC. Data included perioperative variables such as operative time, conversion and complications and cosmesis satisfaction, body image perception, quality of life using validated questionnaires, at postoperative visits of 2, 6 weeks and 3 months.Results: One hundred thirty-six patients were randomized to RSSC (N = 83) and MPLC (N = 53) at 8 institutions. Both cohorts were dominated by higher enrollment of females (RSSC = 78%, MPLC = 92%). The RSSC and MPLC cohorts were otherwise statistically matched. Operative time was longer for RSSC (61 min vs. 44 min, P < 0.0001). There were no differences in complication rates. RSSC demonstrated a significant superiority in cosmesis satisfaction and body image perception (P value < 0.05 at every follow-up). There was no statistically significant difference in patient-reported quality of life. Multivariate analysis of female patients demonstrated significantly higher preference for RSSC over MPLC in cosmesis satisfaction and body image perception with no difference seen in overall quality of life.Conclusions: Results from this trial show that RSSC is associated with improved cosmesis satisfaction and body image perception without a difference in observed complication rate. The uncompromised safety and the improved cosmesis satisfaction and body image perception provided by RSSC for female patients support consideration of the robotic single-site approach. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT01932216. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although simulation training beneficially contributes to traditional surgical training, there are less objective data on simulation skills retention.Objective: To investigate the retention of laparoscopic and robotic skills after simulation training.Methods: We present the second stage of a randomized single-blinded controlled trial in which 40 simulation-naïve medical students were randomly assigned to practice peg transfer tasks on either laparoscopic (N = 20, Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery, Venture Technologies Inc., Waltham, MA) or robotic (N = 20, dV-Trainer, Mimic, Seattle, WA) platforms. In the first stage, two expert surgeons evaluated participants on both tasks before (Stage 1: Baseline) and immediately after training (Stage 1: Post-training) using a modified validated global rating scale of laparoscopic and robotic operative performance. In Stage 2, participants were evaluated on both tasks 11-20 weeks after training.Results: Of the 40 students who participated in Stage 1, 23 (11 laparoscopic and 12 robotic) underwent repeat evaluation. During Stage 2, there were no significant differences between groups in objective or subjective measures for the laparoscopic task. Laparoscopic-trained participants' performances on the laparoscopic task were improved during Stage 2 compared to baseline measured by time to task completion, but not by the modified global rating scale. During the robotic task, the robotic-trained group demonstrated superior economy of motion (p = .017), Tissue Handling (p = .020), and fewer errors (p = .018) compared to the laparoscopic-trained group. Robotic skills acquisition from baseline with no significant deterioration as measured by modified global rating scale scores was observed among robotic-trained participants during Stage 2.Conclusion: Robotic skills acquired through simulation appear to be better maintained than laparoscopic simulation skills.Clinical Trial: This study is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02370407). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Airseal represents a new generation of valveless and barrier-free surgical trocars that enable a stable pneumoperitoneum with continuous smoke evacuation and carbon dioxide (CO2) recirculation during surgery. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the potential advantages of the Airseal compared to a standard CO2 insufflator in the field of robotic partial nephrectomy (RPN).Methods: Between October 2012 and April 2015, two cohorts of 122 consecutive patients with clinically localized renal cell carcinoma underwent RPN by a single surgeon, with the use of a standard CO2 pressure insufflator (Group A, 55 patients) or Airseal (Group B, 67 patients) and were prospectively compared.Results: The two groups were similar in baseline, preoperative characteristics. The mean dimension of the lesion, as evaluated by contrast-enhanced CT scan, was 30 (median 28; IQR 2) and 39 mm (median 40; IQR 2) for Groups A and B, respectively (p < 0.05). The complexity of the treated tumors was similar, as indicated by the mean RENAL nephrometry score. Positive surgical margins rate was similar in both groups (3.6 vs 4.5 %, p = 0.8) as well as the need for postoperative blood transfusion (9.1 vs 4.5 %, p = 0.3) and the development of postoperative acute kidney injury (16.4 vs 10.4 %, p = 0.3). Mean operative time and warm ischemia time were significantly shorter in Group B. Moreover, a significant increase in the cases performed as "zero ischemia" was observed in Group B (7.3 vs 30 %, p < 0.01).Conclusions: This is the first study comparing the Airseal with a standard CO2 insufflator system in the field of the RPN. The preliminary outcomes in terms of overall operative time, warm ischemia time and cases performed as "zero ischemia" are better with respect to standard insufflators. The feasibility, safety and efficacy of combining laser tumor enucleation with the valve-free insufflation systems should be evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To assess the feasibility of a 2nd generation MR-compatible, remote-controlled manipulator (RCM) as an aid to perform MR-guided transrectal prostate biopsy in males with suspicion of prostate cancer (PCa).Methods: This prospective phase I study was approved by the local ethical committee and written informed consent was obtained from each patient. Twenty patients with ≥1 cancer suspicious region (CSR) with a PI-RADS score of ≥3 detected on the diagnostic multi-parametric MRI and no prior prostate treatment underwent MR-guided biopsy with the aid of the RCM. Complications were classified according to the modified Clavien system for reporting surgical complications. For evaluation of the workflow, procedure- and manipulation times were recorded.Results: All CSR's (n=20) were reachable with the MR-compatible RCM and the cancer detection rate was 70 %. The median procedure time was 36:44 minutes (range, 23 - 61 minutes) and the median manipulation time for needle guide movement was 5:48 minutes (range, 1:15 - 18:35 minutes). Two Clavien grade 1 complications were reported.Conclusions: It is feasible and safe to perform transrectal MR-guided prostate biopsy using a MR-compatible RCM as an aid. It is a fast and efficient way to biopsy suspicious prostate lesions with a minimum number of biopsies per patient.Key Points: • It is feasible to perform transrectal prostate biopsy using a MR-compatible RCM. • Using a RCM for MR-guided biopsy is safe, fast, and efficient. • All cancer suspicious regions were reachable with the RCM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Prostatic artery embolization (PAE) is a safe and efficacious procedure for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), though is technically challenging. We present our experience of technical and clinical outcomes of robotic and manual PAE in patients with BPH.Materials and Methods: IRB-approved retrospective study of 40 consecutive patients 49-81 years old with moderate or severe grade BPH from May 2014 to July 2015: 20 robotic-assisted PAE (group 1), 20 manual PAE (group 2). Robotic-assisted PAE was performed using the Magellan Robotic System. American Urological Association (AUA-SI) score, cost, technical and clinical success, radiation dose, fluoroscopy, and procedure time were reviewed. Statistical analysis was performed within and between each group using paired t test and one-way analysis of variance respectively, at 1 and 3 months.Results: No significant baseline differences in age and AUA-SI between groups. Technical success was 100% (group 1) and 95% (group 2). One unsuccessful subject from group 2 returned for a successful embolization using robotic assistance. Fluoroscopy and procedural times were similar between groups, with a non-significant lower patient radiation dose in group 1 (30,632.8 mGy/cm2 vs 35,890.9, p = 0.269). Disposable cost was significantly different between groups with the robotic-assisted PAE incurring a higher cost (group 1 $4530.2; group 2 $1588.5, p < 0.0001). Clinical improvement was significant in both arms at 3 months: group 1 mean change in AUA-SI of 8.3 (p = 0.006), group 2: 9.6 (p < 0.0001). No minor or major complications occurred.Conclusions: Robotic-assisted PAE offers technical success comparable to manual PAE, with similar clinical improvement with an increased cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The advent of three-dimensional passive stereoscopic imaging has led to the development of 3D laparoscopy. In simulation tasks, a reduction in error rate and performance time is seen with 3D compared to two-dimensional (2D) laparoscopy with both novice and expert surgeons. Robotics utilises 3D and instrument articulation through a console interface. Robotic trials have demonstrated that tasks performed in 3D produced fewer errors and quicker performance times compared with those in 2D. It was therefore perceived that the main advantage of robotic surgery was in fact 3D. Our aim was to compare 3D straight-stick laparoscopic task performance (3D) with robotic 3D (Robot), to determine whether robotic surgery confers additional benefit over and above 3D visualisation.Methods: We randomised 20 novice surgeons to perform four validated surgical tasks, either with straight-stick 3D laparoscopy followed by 3D robotic surgery or in the reverse order. The trial was conducted in two fully functional operating theatres. The primary outcome of the study was the error rate as defined for each task, and the secondary outcome was the time taken to complete each task. The participants were asked to perform the tasks as quickly and as accurately as possible. Data were analysed using SPSS version 21.Results: The median error rate for completion of all four tasks with the robot was 2.75 and 5.25 for 3D with a P value <0.001. The median performance time for completion of all four tasks with the robot was 157.1 and 342.5 s for 3D with a P value <0.001.Conclusions: Our study has shown that for novice surgeons, there is a significant benefit in a simulated setting of 3D robotic systems over 3D straight-stick laparoscopy, in terms of reduced error rate and quicker task performance time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to increase knowledge on therapy and educational objectives professionals work on with children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and to identify corresponding state of the art robots. Focus group sessions (n = 9) with ASD professionals (n = 53) from nine organisations were carried out to create an objectives overview, followed by a systematic literature study to identify state of the art robots matching these objectives. Professionals identified many ASD objectives (n = 74) in 9 different domains. State of the art robots addressed 24 of these objectives in 8 domains. Robots can potentially be applied to a large scope of objectives for children with ASD. This objectives overview functions as a base to guide development of robot interventions for these children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Muscle vibration is a technique that applies a low-amplitude/high-frequency vibratory stimulus to a specific muscle using a mechanical device. The aim of this study was to evaluate, using robot-based outcomes, the effects of focal muscle vibration, at different frequencies, on the motor performance of the upper limb in healthy subjects.Methods: Forty-eight volunteer healthy subjects (age: 31 ± 8 years) were enrolled. Subjects were assigned to three different groups: the first group, in which subjects underwent muscle vibration treatment with a frequency of 100 Hz; the second group of subjects underwent the same treatment protocol, but using a frequency of vibration of 200 Hz; finally, the control group did not undergo any treatment. The robot-based evaluation session consisted of visually guided reaching task, performed in the sagittal plane.Results: Our results showed that the vibration treatment improved upper limb motor performance of healthy subjects from the baseline (T0) to 10 days after the end of the treatment (T2), but only the group treated with a frequency of 200 Hz reached statistical significance. Specifically, in this group we found an increase of the number of repetitions (T0: 51.4 ± 22.7; T2: 66.3 ± 11.8), and the smoothness of the movement, as showed by a decrease of the Normalized Jerk (T0: 10.5 ± 2.8; T2: 7.7 ± 0.5).Conclusion: The results of our study support the use of focal muscle vibration protocols in healthy subjects, to improve motor performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: High-quality three-dimensional (3D) vision systems are now available for laparoscopic surgery and may improve surgical performance relative to two-dimensional (2D) laparoscopy. It is unclear whether 3D laparoscopy is superior to 3D robotic systems. The effect of surgeon experience on surgical performance with different instruments also remains unclear. This study compared the ability of experienced and inexperienced surgeons to perform a suturing task with 2D laparoscopy, 3D laparoscopy, and a 3D robot.Methods: The 20 recruited surgeons consisted of experts (≥100 laparoscopic cases, n = 9), surgeons with intermediate experience (20-99 cases, n = 7), and novices (<20 cases, n = 4). All performed a suturing task three times with each instrument. Task failure rates and completion times were measured.Results: All novices failed to complete the task with 2D or 3D laparoscopy, but all completed the task with the robot. The intermediate group failed the task with 2D laparoscopy (23.8% failure rate) more often than with 3D laparoscopy (4.8%) or the robot (0%; P = 0.04). Expert failure rates were low for all instruments. Intermediate group task completion times were similar to 2D laparoscopy (median 312 s; range 229-495 s), 3D laparoscopy (324 s; 170-443 s), and the robot (319 s; 213-433 s) (P = 0.237). The expert times differed significantly (P = 0.01); post hoc analyses showed that their total completion time with 3D laparoscopy (177 s; 126-217 s) was significantly shorter than with 2D laparoscopy (244 s; 155-270 s; P = 0.004). It also tended to be shorter than with the robot (233 s; 187-461 s; P = 0.027).Conclusions: Novices benefited particularly from the robot. The intermediate group completed the task equally well and equally quickly with 3D laparoscopy and the robot. The experts completed the task equally well regardless of instrument, but their times were much faster with 3D laparoscopy. Thus, well-trained laparoscopic surgeons may not really benefit from 3D robot systems if 3D laparoscopy is available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Robotic surgery has gained popularity in surgical oncology. Rectal cancer surgery, known to be technically challenging, may benefit from robotics in achieving better mesorectal dissection and may contribute to improved perioperative outcomes. The objective of this study was to compare early experience in robotic surgery to conventional approaches with regard to clinicopathologic and economic parameters.Methods: A retrospective review using a prospectively maintained database of rectal cancer surgeries performed at a tertiary cancer center from 2007 to 2013 was conducted. These resections included those performed via laparotomy, laparoscopy, and robotic-assisted operations. Perioperative demographic and tumor characteristics were collected, and short-term clinicopathologic outcomes were compared. Additionally, economic variables were evaluated for each patient's episode of care.Results: Seventy-nine cases were identified. Twenty-six were completed via open approach, 27 laparoscopically, and 26 via robotic assistance. Demographic characteristics were similar between all groups including age, gender, BMI, and Charlson score. Comparison of intraoperative characteristics showed a lower rate of conversion to laparotomy (12 vs. 37%, p = 0.05), and lower estimated blood loss (mean 296 vs. 524 cc, p = 0.04), in the robotic group compared to laparoscopy or open resection. There was no significant difference in quality of total mesorectal excision and number of lymph nodes harvested between the three cohorts. Postoperative complication rate, mean length of stay, 30-day readmission, and 30-day mortality were comparable among the cohorts. Median cost per episode of care was lower in laparoscopic surgery ($11,493), compared to open ($12,558) and robotic approach ($18,273); p = 0.029.Conclusions: The findings demonstrate similar perioperative and short-term outcomes between robotic surgery and conventional approaches. Robotic assistance is associated with decreased intraoperative blood loss and fewer conversions, albeit at an increased overall cost. Given these benefits, and as data and experience mature, future study is needed to fully define the value of the robotic approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of this study was to compare the surgical outcomes of robotic single-site (RSS-H) and laparoendoscopic single-site total hysterectomy (LESS-H) and to evaluate the feasibility of RSS-H in patients with benign gynecologic disease.Methods: The RSS-H was performed using the da Vinci single-site surgical platform, and the LESS-H using a single multi-channel port system at the umbilicus. Among 467 consecutive patients who had undergone total hysterectomy for benign gynecologic disease, surgical outcomes were compared between RSS-H group (n = 25) and LESS-H group (n = 442) after propensity score matching.Results: All operations were completed robotically and laparoscopically without conversion to laparotomy, respectively. The RSS-H group had longer operating times and less operative bleeding compared to the LESS-H group. While the LESS-H showed 1.4% of major complication rate, the RSS-H had no perioperative complication. Even after propensity score matching, the RSS-H still showed longer operating times (170.9 vs 94.1 min, p < 0.0001) and less operative bleeding (median estimated blood loss, 20 vs 50 ml, p = 0.009; mean hemoglobin drop, 1.6 vs 2.0 g/dl, p = 0.038) than the LESS-H.Conclusions: The RSS-H could be a feasible and safe procedure in appropriately selected patients with benign gynecologic disease, and further experience and technical refinements will continue to improve operative results. Prospective randomized trials will permit the evaluation of the potential benefits of the RSS surgery as a minimally invasive surgical approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Previous reports have described several candidates, which have the potential to replace colonoscopy, but to date, there is still no device capable of fully replacing flexible colonoscopy in the management of colonic disorders and for mass adult population screening for asymptomatic colorectal cancer.Materials and Methods: NASA developed the TRL methodology to describe and define the stages of development before use and marketing of any device. The definitions of the TRLS used in the present review are those formulated by "The US Department of Defense Technology Readiness Assessment Guidance" but adapted to micro-robots for colonoscopy. All the devices included are reported in scientific literature. They were identified by a systematic search in Web of Science, PubMed and IEEE Xplore amongst other sources. Devices that clearly lack the potential for full replacement of flexible colonoscopy were excluded.Assessment Of the Current Situation: The technological salient features of all the devices included for assessment are described briefly, with particular focus on device propulsion. The devices are classified according to the TRL criteria based on the reported information. An analysis is next undertaken of the characteristics and salient features of the devices included in the review: wireless/tethered devices, data storage-transmission and navigation, additional functionality, residual technology challenges and clinical and socio-economical needs.Conclusions: Few devices currently possess the required functionality and performance to replace the conventional colonoscopy. The requirements, including functionalities which favour the development of a micro-robot platform to replace colonoscopy, are highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) involves accessing the abdominal cavity via one of the body natural orifices for enabling minimally invasive surgical procedures. However, the constraints imposed by the access modality and the limited available technology make NOTES very challenging for surgeons. Tools redesign and introduction of novel surgical instruments are imperative in order to make NOTES operative in a real surgical scenario, reproducible and reliable. Robotic technology has major potential to overcome current limitations.Methods: The robotic platform described here consists of a magnetic anchoring frame equipped with dedicated docking/undocking mechanisms to house up to three modular robots for surgical interventions. The magnetic anchoring frame guarantees the required stability for surgical tasks execution, whilst dedicated modular robots provide the platform with adequate vision, stability and manipulation capabilities.Results: Platform potentialities were demonstrated in a porcine model. Assessment was organized into two consecutive experimental steps, with a hybrid testing modality. First, platform deployment, anchoring and assembly through transoral-transgastric access were demonstrated in order to assess protocol feasibility and guarantee the safe achievement of the following experimental session. Second, transabdominal deployment, anchoring, assembly and robotic module actuation were carried out.Conclusions: This study has demonstrated the feasibility of inserting an endoluminal robotic platform composed of an anchoring frame and modular robotic units into a porcine model through a natural orifice. Once inserted into the peritoneal cavity, the platform provides proper visualization from multiple orientations. For the first time, a platform with interchangeable modules has been deployed and its components have been connected, demonstrating in vivo the feasibility of intra-abdominal assembly. Furthermore, increased dexterity employing different robotic units will enhance future system capabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy (LDP) is increasing in popularity thanks to the benefits that have been recently demonstrated by many authors. The Da Vinci(®) Surgical System could overcome some limits of laparoscopy, helping the surgeons to perform safer and faster difficult procedures. Nowadays, prospective clinical trials comparing LDP to robotic distal pancreatectomy (RDP) are lacking. The aim of this study is to present a prospective comparison between the two techniques.Methods: Since November 2011, all patients suitable for minimally invasive distal pancreatectomy were assigned either to LDP or RDP, depending on the availability of the Da Vinci(®) Surgical System for our Surgical Unit. Demographics, clinical, and intra- and postoperative data, including estimated costs of the procedure, were prospectively collected. Follow-up included cross-sectional imaging ended on April 2014.Results: Twenty-two patients underwent RDP and 21 LDP; patients' characteristics were similar. The median operative time was longer and procedures' cost was double in RDP group. The conversion to open rate and the median length of postoperative hospital stay were 4.5 % and 7 days, respectively, in both groups. Pancreatic fistula developed in 57.1 % (12/21) and 50 % (11/22) of LDP and RDP, respectively (p = 0.870), being grade A the most frequent. Mortality was nil and an R0 resection was achieved in all Patients. The overall number of lymph nodes harvested was similar between the two groups.Conclusions: Both RDP and LDP are valid techniques for the treatment of distal pancreatic tumors. The advantages of RDP are claimed by many but still under investigation. Some of these advantages are more subjective than objective, and it seems difficult to demonstrate a real superiority of one technique over the other in a standardized fashion. In our experience, laparoscopy has not been abandoned in favor of the robot: we continue to perform both approaches choosing upon single patient's characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has emerged as a treatment of choice for early-stage gastric cancer. However, applying MIS to gastric patients with high body mass index (BMI) is technically challenging, especially when performing D2 lymphadenectomy. Recently, robotic systems have been adopted to overcome the technical limitations of conventional laparoscopic surgery. Nevertheless, studies on the impact of the use of robotic systems to perform D2 lymphadenectomy in high BMI patients are lacking. Accordingly, this study was designed to compare the quality of lymphadenectomy, together with surgical outcomes, by robotic distal subtotal gastrectomy with D2 lymphadenectomy (RDGD2) to those by laparoscopic distal subtotal gastrectomy with D2 lymphadenectomy (LDGD2) in patients of different BMI status.Methods: Retrospective review of a prospectively collected database identified 400 gastric cancer patients who underwent either RDGD2 (n = 133) or LDGD2 (n = 267) between 2003 and 2010. Patients were categorized according to surgical approach and BMI. We compared clinicopathologic characteristics, as well as short-term and long-term outcomes, between surgery and BMI groups.Results: Regardless of BMI, RDGD2 required significantly longer operation time than LDGD2 (p = 0.001); meanwhile, RDGD2 showed significantly less blood loss than LDGD2 (p = 0.005). Between BMI groups, RDGD2 showed no significant difference in the rate of retrieving more than 25 lymph nodes (p = 0.181); however, LDGD2 was associated with a significantly lower rate of retrieving more than 25 lymph nodes in high BMI patients (p = 0.006). In high BMI patients, complications did not significantly differ between surgical approaches. As well, RDGD2 and LDGD2 demonstrated no statistically significant survival difference according to BMI status.Conclusions: The benefits of a robotic approach were more evident in high BMI patients than in normal BMI patients when performing distal subtotal gastrectomy with D2 lymphadenectomy, particularly in terms of blood loss and consistent quality of lymphadenectomy. Robotic surgery could be an effective alternative to conventional laparoscopic surgery in treating gastric cancer patients with high BMI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We demonstrate the construct validity, reliability, and utility of Global Evaluative Assessment of Robotic Skills (GEARS), a clinical assessment tool designed to measure robotic technical skills, in an independent cohort using an in vivo animal training model.Methods: Using a cross-sectional observational study design, 47 voluntary participants were categorized as experts (>30 robotic cases completed as primary surgeon) or trainees. The trainee group was further divided into intermediates (≥5 but ≤30 cases) or novices (<5 cases). All participants completed a standardized in vivo robotic task in a porcine model. Task performance was evaluated by two expert robotic surgeons and self-assessed by the participants using the GEARS assessment tool. Kruskal-Wallis test was used to compare the GEARS performance scores to determine construct validity; Spearman's rank correlation measured interobserver reliability; and Cronbach's alpha was used to assess internal consistency.Results: Performance evaluations were completed on nine experts and 38 trainees (14 intermediate, 24 novice). Experts demonstrated superior performance compared to intermediates and novices overall and in all individual domains (p < 0.0001). In comparing intermediates and novices, the overall performance difference trended toward significance (p = 0.0505), while the individual domains of efficiency and autonomy were significantly different between groups (p = 0.0280 and 0.0425, respectively). Interobserver reliability between expert ratings was confirmed with a strong correlation observed (r = 0.857, 95 % CI [0.691, 0.941]). Experts and participant scoring showed less agreement (r = 0.435, 95 % CI [0.121, 0.689] and r = 0.422, 95 % CI [0.081, 0.0672]). Internal consistency was excellent for experts and participants (α = 0.96, 0.98, 0.93).Conclusions: In an independent cohort, GEARS was able to differentiate between different robotic skill levels, demonstrating excellent construct validity. As a standardized assessment tool, GEARS maintained consistency and reliability for an in vivo robotic surgical task and may be applied for skills evaluation in a broad range of robotic procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper proposes a novel method for an accurate and unobtrusive reconstruction of the upper-limb kinematics of stroke patients during robot-aided rehabilitation tasks with end-effector machines. The method is based on a robust analytic procedure for inverse kinematics that simply uses, in addition to hand pose data provided by the robot, upper arm acceleration measurements for computing a constraint on elbow position; it is exploited for task space augmentation. The proposed method can enable in-depth comprehension of planning strategy of stroke patients in the joint space and, consequently, allow developing therapies tailored for their residual motor capabilities. The experimental validation has a twofold purpose: (1) a comparative analysis with an optoelectronic motion capturing system is used to assess the method capability to reconstruct joint motion; (2) the application of the method to healthy and stroke subjects during circle-drawing tasks with InMotion2 robot is used to evaluate its efficacy in discriminating stroke from healthy behavior. The experimental results have shown that arm angles are reconstructed with a RMSE of 8.3 × 10(-3) rad. Moreover, the comparison between healthy and stroke subjects has revealed different features in the joint space in terms of mean values and standard deviations, which also allow assessing inter- and intra-subject variability. The findings of this study contribute to the investigation of motor performance in the joint space and Cartesian space of stroke patients undergoing robot-aided therapy, thus allowing: (1) evaluating the outcomes of the therapeutic approach, (2) re-planning the robotic treatment based on patient needs, and (3) understanding pathology-related motor strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Volume-controlled ventilation with a prolonged inspiratory to expiratory ratio (I:E ratio) has been used to optimize gas exchange and respiratory mechanics in various surgical settings. We hypothesized that, when compared with an I:E ratio of 1:2, a prolonged I:E ratio of 1:1 would improve respiratory mechanics without reducing cardiac output (CO) during pneumoperitoneum and steep Trendelenburg positioning, both of which can impair respiratory function in robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy. Furthermore, we evaluated its effect on oxygenation during robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy.Methods: Eighty patients undergoing robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy were randomly allocated to receive an I:E ratio of either 1:1 (group 1:1) or 1:2 (group 1:2). The primary endpoint, peak airway pressure (Ppeak), as well as hemodynamic data, including cardiac output (CO) and arterial oxygen tension (PaO2), were compared between groups at four time points: ten minutes after anesthesia induction (T1), 30 and 60 min after pneumoperitoneum with steep Trendelenburg positioning (T2 and T3), and ten minutes after supine positioning (T4). Overall comparisons were made between groups using linear mixed model analysis with post hoc testing of individual time points adjusted using a Bonferroni correction.Results: Linear mixed model analysis showed a significant overall difference in Ppeak between the two groups (P < 0.001). Post hoc analysis showed a significantly lower mean (SD) Ppeak in group 1:1 than in group 1:2 at T2 [28.4 (4.0) cm H2O vs 32.8 (5.2) cm H2O, respectively; mean difference, 4.3 cm H2O; 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.3 to 6.4; P < 0.001] and T3 [27.8 (3.9) cm H2O vs 32.6 (5.0) cm H2O, respectively; mean difference, 4.7 cm H2O; 95% CI, 2.7 to 6.7; P < 0.001]. The CO assessed over these time points was comparable in both groups (P = 0.784). In addition, there were no significant differences in PaO2 between the two groups (P = 0.521).Conclusions: Compared with an I:E ratio of 1:2, a ratio of 1:1 lowered Ppeak without reducing CO during pneumoperitoneum and steep Trendelenburg positioning. Nevertheless, our results did not support its use solely for improving oxygenation. This trial was registered at http://clinicaltrials.gov/ (NCT01892449). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study design:Quasi experiment; single experimental group with matched historical control.Objectives:To evaluate the effect of an additive robotic-assisted gait training (RAGT) using the Lokomat system on the neurological and functional outcomes of patients with subacute spinal cord injury (SCI).Setting:Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.Methods:A total of 28 subacute SCI patients were treated by RAGT, 2-3 times a week, 30-45 min every treatment, concomitantly with regular physiotherapy. As control, for each patient, we matched a comparable patient treated in the same department in previous years, according to age, severity of injury, level of injury and cause. The main outcomes were: the AIS (American Spinal Injury Association impairment scale) the spinal cord independence measurement (SCIM) score, the walking index for SCI II (WISCI II) and functional ambulation category scale (FAC).Results:At the end of rehabilitation, both groups showed a significant improvement in both the FAC score and the WISCI score (P<0.01) without differences between the groups. Functional abilities, according to the SCIM score, were also improved, with a significant interaction effect; the RAGT patients improve by 30±20 points, which was significantly greater gain as compared with the controls, 21±14 points (P=0.05). This improvement was mainly due to the change in the SCIM motor subscales.Conclusion:RAGT is an important additional treatment to improve the functional outcome of subacute SCI patients. Larger, controlled studies are still required to determine the optimal timing and protocol design for the maximal efficacy of RAGT in SCI patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Computer-assisted laparoscopic surgery (CALS) in children is increasingly used and has proven to be feasible and safe. However, its full potential remains unclear and clinical comparative studies hardly exist. The aim of this study was to prospectively evaluate our experience with CALS for performing retroperitoneal nephrectomies in children when compared with controls undergoing open surgery in terms of safety, operative time, blood loss, opoid requirements, the duration of hospital stay and complications.Children and Methods: Computer-assisted retroperitoneoscopic nephrectomy was undertaken in ten consecutive children, mean age at the time of surgery 6.4 (SD ± 4.5) years, and compared with a retrospectively collected control group of all other children, mean age 3.9 (SD ± 4.6) years, who underwent the same procedure by conventional open surgery between the years 2005 and 2009. The endpoint of the study was 1 month postoperatively.Results: Nephrectomies were performed in all the children and no child was excluded from the study. There was no per-operative complication in any of the groups. The median (range) operative time was 202 (128-325) and 72 (44-160) min for the CALS and open group, respectively. The blood loss was minimal (<20 ml) for all the patients. The postoperative opoid requirements did not differ. The median (range) postoperative hospital stay was 1 (1-4) and 2 (1-7) days for the CALS and the open group, respectively. One complication in the form of an urinoma appeared 5 days after surgery in the CALS group.Conclusion: Computer-assisted retroperitoneoscopic nephrectomy is a safe, feasible and effective procedure in children. Even though operative times are longer the patients benefit from the lower morbidity, improved cosmetics and shorter hospitalization associated with the minimally invasive approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]