Side-docking in robotic-assisted gynaecologic cancer surgery

Background The majority of previous experience with the robotic-sssisted laparoscopic technique for gynaecological procedures has utilized a method in which the robot is centrally located (CD) between the patient's legs. Methods Twelve consecutive patients undergoing robotic-assisted procedures for gynaecological malignancies were positioned in a side-docking (SD) fashion, in which the robot is positioned lateral to the patient. The relevant clinical parameters were collected and compared to the previous 12 patients undergoing surgery using the conventional, centre-docking (CD) technique. Results Specimen retrieval time for larger uteri was reduced in the SD group compared to the CD group (p = 0.03). Total operative times were slightly lower in the SD group and specimen retrieval times for all uterine weights were unchanged when compared to the CD group. Statistical significance was not observed. Conclusions Side-docking is an alternative to the conventional centre-docking approach in robotic-assisted surgery. Its use may facilitate larger specimen retrieval while decreasing operative time and associated costs. Copyright (C) 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.