The first experience of robot-assisted vental mesh rectopexy using the Senhance® system in the treatment of patients with obstructive defecation syndrome

Aim: to assess primary results of robot-assisted ventral mesh procedure using the new Senhance® robotic system for obstructive defecation syndrome.Patients and Methods: the prospective cohort study included patients who underwent robot-assisted ventral mesh rectopexy with the Senhance® system for obstructive defecation syndrome caused by rectocele and/or rectal prolapse and/or internal intussusception. The optimal trocar sites, the location of robotic arms, operation time and intraoperative blood loss were evaluated, as well as post-op morbidity rate (Clavien-Dindo scale), pain intensity (VAS scale) and recurrence rate.Results: the study included 22 patients. Operation time was 87.1 ± 24.3 minutes. The intraoperative blood loss was 19.8 ± 9.6 ml. No conversion to open or laparoscopic approach occurred, no morbidity occurred. Pain intensity on day 1 was 0.255 mm according to VAS. No anatomical recurrence was revealed. The median follow-up period was 20.4 months (7–22 months).Conclusion: robotic-assisted ventral rectopexy using the Senhance® system is effective and safe. The results are similar to laparoscopic ones. However, the use of the Senhance® system is cost effective compared to other robotic systems.