Robotic technology for pelvic exenteration in cases of cervical cancer

Background

Cervical cancer represents one of the most common types of neoplasia among women; the use of minimally invasive techniques in the treatment of cervical cancer is a challenge.

Objectives

To present evidence regarding robotic technology in the performance of pelvic exenteration in cases of cervical cancer.

Search strategy

PubMed and Scopus databases were searched.

Selection criteria

Articles examining the use of robotic technology for pelvic exenteration in cases of cervical cancer were included.

Data collection and analysis

Four studies were included.

Main results

Most cancers treated with robotic-assisted pelvic exenteration were squamous cell carcinomas of the cervix. The stage of primary cancer ranged from IB2 to IVA. In 7 of the 8 patients, anterior pelvic exenteration was performed; the other patient underwent total pelvic exenteration. Procedure duration ranged from 375 to 600 minutes; blood loss was 200–550 mL. Postoperative complications occurred in 2 of the 8 patients and included perineal abscess, Miami pouch fistula, and ureteral stenosis. Postoperative hospital stay ranged from 3 to 53 days, and postoperative follow-up ranged from 2 to 31 months.

Conclusions

The gold standard for pelvic exenteration remains the open surgical approach; however, the application of robotic technology could be an alternate choice associated with excellent results.