Robotic distal pancreatectomy

Abstract

Laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy has steadily replaced open approach in recent years. However, because of long learning curve associated with the technique, it has not been widely adopted. The advent of the da Vinci Robotic System may help more open surgeons to join the minimally invasive pancreatic surgery. This paper describes the author’s technique along with tips and trick that he has developed and refined over the past 10 years. Outcome studies were also discussed.