Early Experience of Uniportal Robotic-Assisted Anatomic Resection in Lung Cancer Patients: Is it Safe and Feasible for Direct Transition From Uniportal Video Thoracoscopic-Assisted Surgery to Uniportal Robotic-Assisted Surgery?

BACKGROUND

Lung cancer remains a leading cause of mortality worldwide, with surgery being a primary treatment option for early-stage cases. Minimally invasive surgery has gained attention due to its potential benefits. Uniportal robotic-assisted thoracic surgery (RATS) is emerging as a viable option for treating lung cancer patients.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, conducted from August 2023 to December 2023, we assessed the feasibility of Uniportal robotic-assisted thoracic surgery (URATS) in 15 patients with 16 lung cancers. The perioperative and 30-day short-term outcome results were collected.

RESULTS

Perioperative outcomes, including length of hospital stay and postoperative complications, were evaluated. No perioperative or 30-day mortality was observed, and there were no cases requiring conversion to multiport RATS or thoracotomy.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that URATS can be successfully performed in lung cancer patients, provided the surgical team possesses excellent communication skills and extensive training in Uniport video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery and comprehensive RATS techniques.