Dealing with robot-assisted surgery for rectal cancer: Current status and perspectives

Figure 1 View of male pelvic cavity after total mesorectal excision and rectal resection, hypogastric nerves are identified and preserved (arrow heads).

Figure 2 Position of the robotic cart.

Figure 3 Placement of the trocars, ROBOTIC LAR (A); IMA, IMV and splenic flexure, ROBOTIC LAR (B) and total mesorectal excision (C). OT: Optical trocar; R: Robotic arms; A: Assistant.

Figure 4 Surgical specimen of robot-assisted total mesorectal excision. A: This figure shows a very smooth mesorectal fat pad which tapers distally consistent with complete excision of the mesorectum. Grade 3 according to Quirke; B: Grade 3 complete excision according to Quirke showing the wisps of fascia that surrounds the mesorectum indicating that a fascial plane actually exists and points to a complete excision by surgeon, mesorectal vessels contained within the mesorectum can be seen; arrow head; C: Opened specimen showing the tumor; arrow head.

Figure 5 Comparison of 5-year local recurrence. Modified from Ref[14].