Robotic Tubo-Ovarian Surgery

Abstract

Robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery is still a relatively new innovation in the field of gynecologic surgery. It was developed to overcome difficulties encountered with conventional laparoscopy and has been demonstrated to be just as safe as conventional laparoscopic surgery. Cited advantages of robotic technology over conventional laparoscopy include absence of tremor, three-dimensional image, superior instrument articulation, downscaling of movements, improved surgeon ergonomics, and faster operator learning curve (Obstet Gynecol 125:760–767, 2015). The main drawbacks are prolonged operating times and increase in operating cost (J Minim Invasive Gynecol 20(1):2–9, 2013; Sinha et al., Open J Obstet Gynecol 6:93–102, 2016). There are certain tubo-ovarian procedures that may benefit from the use of the robot, whereas use for other adnexal procedures may be considered excessive. Surgeons must be prudent in patient selection for utilization of robotic-assisted versus conventional approach to laparoscopy. In this chapter, we discuss indications for and describe certain scenarios for robotic-assisted tubo-ovarian surgery.