Robot-Assisted Total Proctocolectomy for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis with Multiple Colorectal Cancers Using the Hugo RAS System

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Experience with the Hugo RAS system in robot-assisted colorectal surgery is limited. This is particularly noticeable when focusing on complex procedures, such as total proctocolectomy (TPC). This study aimed to demonstrate the feasibility and safety of using the Hugo RAS system for TPC.

CASE PRESENTATION: A 27-year-old woman with multiple colorectal cancers with a background of familial adenomatous polyposis underwent robot-assisted TPC, including lymph node dissection of the entire colorectal region using the Hugo RAS system. The robotic procedure was divided into 3 steps: 1) Trendelenburg position to perform ascending colon complete mesocolic excision (CME) to the hepatic flexure, 2) descending colon CME and total mesorectal excision with D3 lymph node dissection, and 3) flat position to perform central vessel ligation along the superior mesenteric artery. After undocking, the specimen was extracted transanally, and an ileal pouch was constructed from a small laparotomy at the umbilical incision, followed by ileal pouch-anal anastomosis. The operative time was 632 min, and the estimated blood loss was minimal. The postoperative period was uneventful.

CONCLUSIONS: Robot-assisted TPC using the Hugo RAS system is safe and feasible. The flexibility of Hugo, which is carried by a modular-type surgical robot with multiple independent arms, enables safe and effective advanced procedures.