Surgical techniques: Hepatobiliary/pancreas: Robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy (whipple procedure)

Abstract

Technological innovations in robotic-assisted surgery have allowed complex resections and anastomotic reconstructions. We present the selection criteria, technical description, and preliminary outcomes of robotic-assisted pancreaticoduodenectomy (RAPD). RAPD is offered to patients with low-predicted risk of a non-R0 outcome, based on tumor diameter, endoscopic ultrasound, and CT evidence of vascular involvement. Early outcomes of RAPD are comparable to laparoscopic and open approaches, bringing the well-recognized advantages of minimally invasive surgery to major pancreatic resections.