Computer-assisted laparoscopic colon resection with the Da Vinci® system. Our first experiences

Purpose: Telerobotic surgery is a developing and promising modality that highly improves the laparoscopic dexterity. We have performed more than 150 laparoscopic and thoracoscopic procedures since December 2002 with the aid of the Da Vinci® robotic system. The aim was to assess the value of robots in minimal invasive surgery. We present our first cases of robotic assisted colectomies. Methods: Two patients underwent a telerobotic assisted sigmoidectomy for sigmadiverticulitis. One of these cases was complicated with a sigmoid-bladder fistula. Three other patients were submitted to a colon resection for cancer: s…