Comparative Outcomes of Robotic Assisted Versus Laparoscopic Subtotal Cholecystectomy: A Retrospective Analysis of Surgical Efficacy and Postoperative Intervention.

Abstract

Background: Subtotal cholecystectomy is employed when the hepatocystic triangle cannot be visualized, a surgical maneuver reserved for difficult gallbladders. The current literature compares an open versus laparoscopic approach with little discussion of robotic-assisted procedures. Although the robotic approach offers enhanced visualization and dexterity, its application in subtotal cholecystectomy remains underexplored. This study aims to compare the outcomes of robotic-assisted and laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomies, focusing on postoperative complications and the learning curve associated with robotic surgery.

Methods: This study population included patients from July 2021 to June 2024 who underwent a subtotal cholecystectomy either laparoscopically or robotically with either fenestrated or reconstituted closure of the remaining biliary structures. A subtotal cholecystectomy was defined as a cholecystectomy with failure to control the cystic duct or view of the hepatocystic triangle of safety leading to at least 50% removal of the gallbladder body. Patients were categorized by their operative techniques: robotic or laparoscopic. The study variables included indication, age, gender, weight, operative variables, closure type, subsequent interventions, and other outcome data.

Results: In a retrospective analysis of 48 subtotal cholecystectomy cases performed between July 2021 and June 2024, 37.5% were robotic, and 62.5% were laparoscopic. Robotic procedures were more often associated with reconstituted closure (72.22%) compared to laparoscopic procedures, which used fenestrated closure (100%). Postoperative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) was significantly less frequent in the robotic group (11.1%) compared to the laparoscopic group (27.1%, P = .03). No patients in the reconstituted group needed postoperative ERCP, while 31.25% of fenestrated cases did (P = .004). Surgical duration and length of stay were comparable between the 2 techniques, challenging the notion of a steep learning curve for robotic surgery.

Conclusions: Robotic-assisted subtotal cholecystectomy is a practical and potentially superior alternative to laparoscopic methods, particularly in reducing the need for postoperative interventions like ERCP. The findings support the broader adoption of robotics in challenging gallbladder surgeries. Further multicenter studies with larger cohorts are recommended to confirm these findings.