Beyond the Band-Aid: Robot-Assisted Laparoscopy for Splenic Aneurysms-A Systematic Review.

Background: Splenic artery aneurysm (SAA) is characterized by a weakening and bulging of splenic artery. Robot-assisted (RA) laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive surgical technique. This systematic review aimed to assess the use of RA laparoscopic surgery to manage SAA.

Methods: Five medical databases were used to identify studies that investigated the use of robotic devices in laparoscopic SAA management in humans. Original peer-reviewed articles were included. Two authors independently screened articles and extracted data on factors including patient demographics, surgical procedures, and outcomes.

Results: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses search identified 7 studies with a total of 28 patients who underwent RA laparoscopic surgery for SAA. The studies reported successful surgeries using various techniques, including end-to-end anastomosis, ligation, and graft placement. 3-dimensional printed models were used in 1 study as an aid for preoperative surgery planning. Mean operation time was 210 minutes, and 3 complications were reported (robotic arm failure during surgery and 2 conversions to open surgery).

Conclusions: RA laparoscopic surgery offers several advantages more than traditional open surgery for SAA management. However, more research is needed to confirm these potential benefits and establish RA laparoscopic surgery as a standard treatment option for SAA. Future studies should involve larger patient groups, compare this method to traditional techniques, and evaluate its cost-effectiveness. Additionally, incorporating advancements like mixed reality for preoperative planning and 3D printing to improve surgical planning and patient communication.