This project was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 81870380) and the Shaanxi Province Science Foundation (2020ZDLSF01-03 and 2020KWZ-020).

<ol>
	<li>Fantus, R. J., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Facility-level+analysis+of+robot+utilization+across+disciplines+in+the+National+Cancer+Database.">Facility-level analysis of robot utilization across disciplines in the National Cancer Database.</a> Journal of Robotic Surgery. 13 (2), 293-299 (2019).</li><li>Akiyoshi, T., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Results+of+a+japanese+nationwide+multi-institutional+study+on+lateral+pelvic+lymph+node+metastasis+in+low+rectal+cancer+is+it+regional+or+distant+disease.">Results of a japanese nationwide multi-institutional study on lateral pelvic lymph node metastasis in low rectal cancer is it regional or distant disease.</a> Annals of Surgery. 255 (6), 1129-1134 (2012).</li><li>Fujita, S., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Mesorectal+excision+with+or+without+lateral+lymph+node+dissection+for+clinical+stage+II/III+lower+rectal+cancer+(JCOG0212):+A+multicenter,+randomized+controlled,+noninferiority+trial.">Mesorectal excision with or without lateral lymph node dissection for clinical stage II/III lower rectal cancer (JCOG0212): A multicenter, randomized controlled, noninferiority trial.</a> Annals of Surgery. 266 (2), 201-207 (2017).</li><li>Yamaguchi, T., Kinugasa, Y., Shiomi, A., Tomioka, H., Kagawa, H. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Robotic-assisted+laparoscopic+versus+open+lateral+lymph+node+dissection+for+advanced+lower+rectal+cancer+(vol+30,+pg+721).">Robotic-assisted laparoscopic versus open lateral lymph node dissection for advanced lower rectal cancer (vol 30, pg 721).</a> Surgical Endoscopy and Other Interventional Techniques. 30 (2), 729 (2016).</li><li>Yamaguchi, T., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Oncological+outcomes+of+robotic-assisted+laparoscopic+versus+open+lateral+lymph+node+dissection+for+locally+advanced+low+rectal+cancer.">Oncological outcomes of robotic-assisted laparoscopic versus open lateral lymph node dissection for locally advanced low rectal cancer.</a> Surgical Endoscopy and Other Interventional Techniques. 32 (11), 4498-4505 (2018).</li><li>Gustafsson, U. O., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Guidelines+for+perioperative+care+in+elective+colorectal+surgery:+enhanced+recovery+after+surgery+(ERAS((R)))+society+recommendations:+2018.">Guidelines for perioperative care in elective colorectal surgery: enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS((R))) society recommendations: 2018.</a> World Journal of Surgery. 43 (3), 659-695 (2019).</li><li>Brind'Amour, A., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Canadian+guidelines+on+the+management+of+colorectal+peritoneal+metastases.">Canadian guidelines on the management of colorectal peritoneal metastases.</a> Current Oncology. 27 (6), 621-631 (2020).</li><li>Watanabe, T., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Japanese+society+for+cancer+of+the+colon+and+rectum+(JSCCR)+guidelines+2016+for+the+treatment+of+colorectal+cancer.">Japanese society for cancer of the colon and rectum (JSCCR) guidelines 2016 for the treatment of colorectal cancer.</a> International Journal of Clinical Oncology. 23 (1), 1-34 (2018).</li><li>Professional Committee of Robotic Surgery, C.C.C.o.C.M.D.A. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Robotic+and+Laparoscopic+Surgery+Committee+of+Chinese+Research+Hospital,+A.+[Chinese+expert+consensus+on+robotic+surgery+for+colorectal+cancer+(2020+edition)].">Robotic and Laparoscopic Surgery Committee of Chinese Research Hospital, A. [Chinese expert consensus on robotic surgery for colorectal cancer (2020 edition)].</a> Zhonghua Wei Chang Wai Ke Za Zhi. 24 (1), 14-22 (2021).</li><li>Napoli, N., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Robot-Assisted+Radical+Antegrade+Modular+Pancreatosplenectomy+Including+Resection+and+Reconstruction+of+the+Spleno-Mesenteric+Junction.">Robot-Assisted Radical Antegrade Modular Pancreatosplenectomy Including Resection and Reconstruction of the Spleno-Mesenteric Junction.</a> Journal of Visualized Experiments. (155), e60370 (2020).</li><li>Shi, F., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Clinical+feasibility+and+safety+of+third+space+robotic+and+endoscopic+cooperative+surgery+for+gastric+gastrointestinal+stromal+tumors+dissection+:+A+new+surgical+technique+for+treating+gastric+GISTs.">Clinical feasibility and safety of third space robotic and endoscopic cooperative surgery for gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors dissection : A new surgical technique for treating gastric GISTs.</a> Surgical Endoscopy and Other Interventional Techniques. 33 (12), 4192-4200 (2019).</li><li>Sung, H., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Global+cancer+statistics+2020:+GLOBOCAN+estimates+of+incidence+and+mortality+worldwide+for+36+cancers+in+185+countries.">Global cancer statistics 2020: GLOBOCAN estimates of incidence and mortality worldwide for 36 cancers in 185 countries.</a> CA Cancer Journal for Clinicians. 71 (3), 209-249 (2021).</li><li>Heald, R. J. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=A+new+approach+to+rectal+cancer.">A new approach to rectal cancer.</a> British Journal of Hospital Medication. 22 (3), 277-281 (1979).</li><li>Jiang, T. Y., Ma, J. J., Zheng, M. H. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Controversies+and+consensus+in+transanal+total+mesorectal+excision+(taTME):+Is+it+a+valid+choice+for+rectal+cancer.">Controversies and consensus in transanal total mesorectal excision (taTME): Is it a valid choice for rectal cancer.</a> Journal of Surgical Oncology. 123, 59-64 (2021).</li><li>Di Saverio, S., Stupalkowska, W., Hussein, A., Fearnhead, N., Wheeler, J. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Laparoscopic+ultralow+anterior+resection+with+intracorporeal+coloanal+stapled+anastomosis+for+low+rectal+cancer+-+is+robotic+surgery+or+transanal+total+mesorectal+excision+always+needed+to+achieve+a+good+oncological+and+sphincter-sparing+dissection+-+a+video+vignette.">Laparoscopic ultralow anterior resection with intracorporeal coloanal stapled anastomosis for low rectal cancer - is robotic surgery or transanal total mesorectal excision always needed to achieve a good oncological and sphincter-sparing dissection - a video vignette.</a> Colorectal Diseases. 21 (7), 848-849 (2019).</li><li>Sylla, P., Rattner, D. W., Delgado, S., Lacy, A. M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=NOTES+transanal+rectal+cancer+resection+using+transanal+endoscopic+microsurgery+and+laparoscopic+assistance.">NOTES transanal rectal cancer resection using transanal endoscopic microsurgery and laparoscopic assistance.</a> Surgical Endoscopy and Other Interventional Techniques. 24 (5), 1205-1210 (2010).</li><li>Larsen, S. G., Pfeffer, F., Korner, H. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Norwegian+moratorium+on+transanal+total+mesorectal+excision.">Norwegian moratorium on transanal total mesorectal excision.</a> British Journal of Surgery. 106 (9), 1120-1121 (2019).</li><li>Koedam, T. W., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Transanal+total+mesorectal+excision+(TaTME)+for+rectal+cancer:+effects+on+patient-reported+quality+of+life+and+functional+outcome.">Transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) for rectal cancer: effects on patient-reported quality of life and functional outcome.</a> Techniques in Coloproctology. 21 (1), 25-33 (2017).</li><li>Baik, S. H., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Robotic+total+mesorectal+excision+for+the+treatment+of+rectal+cancer.">Robotic total mesorectal excision for the treatment of rectal cancer.</a> Journal of Robotic Surgery. 1 (1), 99-102 (2007).</li><li>Gavriilidis, P., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Robotic+vs+laparoscopic+total+mesorectal+excision+for+rectal+cancers:+has+a+paradigm+change+occurred?+A+systematic+review+by+updated+meta-analysis.">Robotic vs laparoscopic total mesorectal excision for rectal cancers: has a paradigm change occurred? A systematic review by updated meta-analysis.</a> Colorectal Diseases. 22 (11), 1506-1517 (2020).</li><li>Prete, F. P., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Robotic+versus+laparoscopic+minimally+invasive+surgery+for+rectal+cancer:+A+Systematic+review+and+meta-analysis+of+randomized+controlled+trials.">Robotic versus laparoscopic minimally invasive surgery for rectal cancer: A Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.</a> Annals of Surgery. 267 (6), 1034-1046 (2018).</li><li>Qiu, H., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Long-term+oncological+outcomes+in+robotic+versus+laparoscopic+approach+for+rectal+cancer:+A+systematic+review+and+meta-analysis.">Long-term oncological outcomes in robotic versus laparoscopic approach for rectal cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis.</a> International Journal of Surgery. 80, 225-230 (2020).</li><li>Kapiteijn, E., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Preoperative+radiotherapy+combined+with+total+mesorectal+excision+for+resectable+rectal+cancer.">Preoperative radiotherapy combined with total mesorectal excision for resectable rectal cancer.</a> New England Journal of Medicine. 345 (9), 638-646 (2001).</li><li>Ogura, A., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Neoadjuvant+(Chemo)radiotherapy+with+total+mesorectal+excision+only+is+not+sufficient+to+prevent+lateral+local+recurrence+in+enlarged+nodes:+Results+of+the+multicenter+lateral+node+study+of+patients+with+low+cT3/4+rectal+cancer.">Neoadjuvant (Chemo)radiotherapy with total mesorectal excision only is not sufficient to prevent lateral local recurrence in enlarged nodes: Results of the multicenter lateral node study of patients with low cT3/4 rectal cancer.</a> Journal of Clinical Oncology. 37 (1), 33-43 (2019).</li><li>Emile, S. H., Elfeki, H., Shalaby, M., Sakr, A., Kim, N. K. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Outcome+of+lateral+pelvic+lymph+node+dissection+with+total+mesorectal+excision+in+treatment+of+rectal+cancer:+A+systematic+review+and+meta-analysis.">Outcome of lateral pelvic lymph node dissection with total mesorectal excision in treatment of rectal cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis.</a> Surgery. 169 (5), 1005-1015 (2021).</li><li>Hajibandeh, S., Hajibandeh, S., Matthews, J., Palmer, L., Maw, A. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Meta-analysis+of+survival+and+functional+outcomes+after+total+mesorectal+excision+with+or+without+lateral+pelvic+lymph+node+dissection+in+rectal+cancer+surgery.">Meta-analysis of survival and functional outcomes after total mesorectal excision with or without lateral pelvic lymph node dissection in rectal cancer surgery.</a> Surgery. 168 (3), 486-496 (2020).</li><li>Laparoscopic surgery committee of the endoscopist branch in the chinese medical doctor, A. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Laparoscopic+surgery+committee+of+colorectal+cancer+committee+of+chinese+medical+doctor,+A.+and+Colorectal+surgery+group+of+the+surgery+branch+in+the+chinese+medical,+A.+[Chinese+expert+consensus+on+the+diagnosis+and+treatment+for+lateral+lymph+node+metastasis+of+rectal+cancer+(2019+edition)].">Laparoscopic surgery committee of colorectal cancer committee of chinese medical doctor, A. and Colorectal surgery group of the surgery branch in the chinese medical, A. [Chinese expert consensus on the diagnosis and treatment for lateral lymph node metastasis of rectal cancer (2019 edition)].</a> Zhonghua Wei Chang Wai Ke Za Zhi. 22 (10), 901-912 (2019).</li><li>Podda, M., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Multidisciplinary+management+of+elderly+patients+with+rectal+cancer:+recommendations+from+the+SICG+(Italian+Society+of+Geriatric+Surgery),+SIFIPAC+(Italian+Society+of+Surgical+Pathophysiology),+SICE+(Italian+Society+of+Endoscopic+Surgery+and+new+technologies),+and+the+WSES+(World+Society+of+Emergency+Surgery)+International+Consensus+Project.">Multidisciplinary management of elderly patients with rectal cancer: recommendations from the SICG (Italian Society of Geriatric Surgery), SIFIPAC (Italian Society of Surgical Pathophysiology), SICE (Italian Society of Endoscopic Surgery and new technologies), and the WSES (World Society of Emergency Surgery) International Consensus Project.</a> World Journal of Emergency Surgery. 16 (1), 35 (2021).</li><li>Fung, T. L. D., Tsukada, Y., Ito, M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Essential+anatomy+for+total+mesorectal+excision+and+lateral+lymph+node+dissection,+in+both+trans-abdominal+and+trans-anal+perspective.">Essential anatomy for total mesorectal excision and lateral lymph node dissection, in both trans-abdominal and trans-anal perspective.</a> Surgeon. , (2020).</li></ol>

Nothing to disclose.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide13. Among them, more than a third are rectal cancer. Due to the higher postoperative functional requirement and the sophisticated neuro- and fascial anatomy of the pelvis and perineum, the best surgical approach for rectal cancer, especially low or ultralow rectal cancer, is still under great debate. Since its first report in 1979, total mesorectal excision (TME) has been the standard surgical technique for the treatment of resecta...

Since their approval for clinical use by the United States Food and Drug Administration in 2000, da Vinci surgical robots have been increasingly utilized across different surgical specialties1. The robotic surgical system has the advantages of using flexible multijoint arms, a high-quality three-dimensional camera, tremor filtration, and greatly improved ergonomics, which can minimize the invasiveness of the operation and thus making it ideal for complex procedures.
For decades, total mesorectal excision (TME) has been the standard for the treatment of resectable rectal cancer. However, for advanced (T3/T4) rectal cancer located below the peritoneal reflection, lateral pelvic lymph node (LPLN) metastasis is a major cause of local recurrence after surgery2. Clinical evidence clearly shows that lateral pelvic lymph node dissection (LPLND) could significantly reduce the local recurrence rate3. Compared with the open procedure, robot-assisted TME and LPLND have been associated with less blood loss, fewer blood transfusions and fewer postoperative complications4. In addition, the long-term outcomes are not significantly different between the two procedures5. The results of these reports indicate that robot-assisted LPLND may be a feasible modality for locally advanced rectal cancer. However, it should be noted that robot-assisted TME and LPLND are complex procedures and should be performed by an experienced surgeon.
Herein, a standard systematic approach to robot-assisted TME and LPLND is described step by step. This procedure was developed at the center having experience in performing more than three thousand robotic procedures6. In addition, this approach was based on normal anatomical characteristics; rare anatomical variations should be noted.
We present the case of a 64-year-old male patient who had intermittent hematochezia for approximately 3 months. Digital rectal examination revealed that a mass was located on the anterior and right lateral wall of the rectum, 5 cm from the anus. An enhanced computed tomography (CT) scan and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) revealed lower rectal cancer with internal iliac lymph node metastasis. Colonoscopic biopsy confirmed the presence of moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma. The preoperative evaluation suggested that the clinical stage was cT3N+M0. Accordingly, we decided to perform robot-assisted TME and LPLND. Patient consent was obtained prior to performing these procedures.

<table border="1" fo:keep-together.within-page="1" fo:keep-with-next.within-page="always">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>0 Silk suture</td>
			<td>N/A</td>
			<td>N/A</td>
			<td>Secure the anvil</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>12mm Trocar</td>
			<td>Medtronic (Minneapolis, MN)</td>
			<td>NONB12STF</td>
			<td>Assistant port 1</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>19 Fr drain</td>
			<td>N/A</td>
			<td>N/A</td>
			<td>Pelvic drain</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2-0 Silk suture</td>
			<td>N/A</td>
			<td>N/A</td>
			<td>Close skin incisions</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2-0 V-Loc sutures</td>
			<td>Covidien (Dublin, Ireland)</td>
			<td>VLOCL0315</td>
			<td>Barbed Absorable Suture</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>4-0 PDS</td>
			<td>Ethicon (Somerville, NJ)</td>
			<td>SXPP1A400</td>
			<td>Synthetic Absorbable Suture</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>8mm Trocar</td>
			<td>Medtronic (Minneapolis, MN)</td>
			<td>NONB8STF</td>
			<td>Assistant port 2</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Bipolar forceps</td>
			<td>Intuitive (Sunnyvale, CA)</td>
			<td>470172</td>
			<td>Operation</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Cadiere grasping forceps</td>
			<td>Intuitive (Sunnyvale, CA)</td>
			<td>470049</td>
			<td>Operation</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Circular stapler</td>
			<td>EzisurgMed (Shanghai, China)</td>
			<td>CS2535</td>
			<td>Laparoscopic Surgical Stapler</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Da Vinci Si</td>
			<td>Intuitive (Sunnyvale, CA)</td>
			<td>N/A</td>
			<td>Surgical Robot</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Da Vinci Xi</td>
			<td>Intuitive (Sunnyvale, CA)</td>
			<td>N/A</td>
			<td>Surgical Robot</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Hem-o-lok ligation clip</td>
			<td>Weck (Morrisville, NC)</td>
			<td>544995</td>
			<td>Ligation of vessel</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Laparoscopic single use linear cutting stapler</td>
			<td>EzisurgMed (Shanghai, China)</td>
			<td>U12M45</td>
			<td>Laparoscopic Surgical Stapler</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Large needle driver</td>
			<td>Intuitive (Sunnyvale, CA)</td>
			<td>470006</td>
			<td>Operation</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Monopolar scissors</td>
			<td>Intuitive (Sunnyvale, CA)</td>
			<td>470179</td>
			<td>Operation</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Ribbon retractor</td>
			<td>N/A</td>
			<td>N/A</td>
			<td>Control movement of rectum</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Specimen Bags</td>
			<td>N/A</td>
			<td>N/A</td>
			<td>Extract specimen</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Veress needle</td>
			<td>N/A</td>
			<td>N/A</td>
			<td>Saline drop test</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

robot-assisted total mesorectal excision and lateral pelvic lymph node dissection for locally advanced middle-low rectal cancer

Since their approval for clinical use, da Vinci surgical robots have shown great advantages in gastrointestinal surgical operations, especially in complex procedures. The high-quality 3-D visual, multijoint arm and natural tremor filtration allow the surgeon to expose and dissect more accurately with minimal invasion. Total mesorectal excision is the standard surgical technique for the treatment of resectable rectal cancer. To reduce the lateral recurrence rate, lateral pelvic lymph node dissection can be performed, as it is a safe and feasible procedure for locally advanced middle-low rectal cancer with a high possibility of metastasis to the lateral lymph nodes. However, the complexity of the anatomic structures and the high postoperative complication rate limit its application. Recently, several surgeons have increasingly used robotic techniques for total mesorectal excision and lateral pelvic lymph node dissection. Compared with open and laparoscopic surgery, the robotic technique has several advantages, such as less blood loss, fewer blood transfusions, minimal trauma, shorter postoperative hospitalization, and quicker recovery. A robotic approach is generally regarded as a reasonable alternative for complicated procedures such as lateral pelvic lymph node dissection, although there are a limited number of high-quality prospective randomized controlled studies reporting direct evidence. Here, we provide the detailed steps of robot-assisted total mesorectal excision and lateral pelvic lymph node dissection performed at the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi&#39;an Jiaotong University.

The detailed perioperative information of the case presented in the video is shown in Table 1 and Figure 3. The procedure was performed in April 2019 by the corresponding author using the da Vinci Si Robot system. The estimated blood loss during the operation was 90 mL, and no transfusions were required. Postoperative management adhered to the principles of ERAS. After the first defecation on the 6th day after the operation, we administered a meglumine diatrizoate enema and ...

Watch this Scientific Journal Video about Robot-assisted Total Mesorectal Excision and Lateral Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection for Locally Advanced Middle-low Rectal Cancer at JoVE.com

Robot-assisted Total Mesorectal Excision and Lateral Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection for Locally Advanced Middle-low Rectal Cancer

The robotic technique described herein aims to detail a stepwise approach to robot-assisted total mesorectal excision and lateral pelvic lymph node dissection for locally advanced (T3/T4) rectal cancer located below the peritoneal reflection.

Since their approval for clinical use, da Vinci surgical robots have shown great advantages in gastrointestinal surgical operations, especially in complex ...

robot-assisted-total-mesorectal-excision-lateral-pelvic-lymph-node

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Medicine

5.4K Views.  The First Affiliated Hospital of Xian Jiaotong University. The robotic technique described herein aims to detail a stepwise approach to robot-assisted total mesorectal excision and lateral pelvic lymph node dissection for locally advanced (T3/T4) rectal cancer located below the peritoneal reflection.

Video: Robot-assisted Total Mesorectal Excision and Lateral Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection for Locally Advanced Middle-low Rectal Cancer

Multispectral Real-time Fluorescence Imaging for Intraoperative Detection of the Sentinel Lymph Node in Gynecologic Oncology

The prognosis in virtually all solid tumors depends on the presence or absence of lymph node metastases.1-3 Surgical treatment most often combines radical excision of the tumor with a full lymphadenectomy in the drainage area of the tumor. However, removal of lymph nodes is associated with increased morbidity due to infection, wound breakdown and lymphedema.4,5 As an alternative, the sentinel lymph node procedure (SLN) was developed several decades ago to detect the first draining lymph node from the tumor.6 In case of lymphogenic dissemination, the SLN is the first lymph node that is affected (Figure 1). Hence, if the SLN does not contain metastases, downstream lymph nodes will also be free from tumor metastases and need not to be removed. The SLN procedure is part of the treatment for many tumor types, like breast cancer and melanoma, but also for cancer of the vulva and cervix.7 The current standard methodology for SLN-detection is by peritumoral injection of radiocolloid one day prior to surgery, and a colored dye intraoperatively. Disadvantages of the procedure in cervical and vulvar cancer are multiple injections in the genital area, leading to increased psychological distress for the patient, and the use of radioactive colloid.
Multispectral fluorescence imaging is an emerging imaging modality that can be applied intraoperatively without the need for injection of radiocolloid. For intraoperative fluorescence imaging, two components are needed: a fluorescent agent and a quantitative optical system for intraoperative imaging. As a fluorophore we have used indocyanine green (ICG). ICG has been used for many decades to assess cardiac function, cerebral perfusion and liver perfusion.8 It is an inert drug with a safe pharmaco-biological profile. When excited at around 750 nm, it emits light in the near-infrared spectrum around 800 nm. A custom-made multispectral fluorescence imaging camera system was used.9.
The aim of this video article is to demonstrate the detection of the SLN using intraoperative fluorescence imaging in patients with cervical and vulvar cancer. Fluorescence imaging is used in conjunction with the standard procedure, consisting of radiocolloid and a blue dye. In the future, intraoperative fluorescence imaging might replace the current method and is also easily transferable to other indications like breast cancer and melanoma.

Fluorescence imaging is a promising innovative modality for image-guided surgery in surgical oncology. In this video we describe the technical procedure for detection of the sentinel lymph node using fluorescence imaging as showcased in gynecologic oncologicy. A multispectral fluorescence camera system, together with the fluorescent agent indocyanine green, is applied.

The prognosis in virtually all solid tumors depends on the presence or absence of lymph node metastases.1-3 Surgical treatment most often combines radical ...

High-frequency Ultrasound Imaging of Mouse Cervical Lymph Nodes

High-frequency ultrasound (HFUS) is widely employed as a non-invasive method for imaging internal anatomic structures in experimental small animal systems. HFUS has the ability to detect structures as small as 30 &#181;m, a property that has been utilized for visualizing superficial lymph nodes in rodents in brightness (B)-mode. Combining power Doppler with B-mode imaging allows for measuring circulatory blood flow within lymph nodes and other organs. While HFUS has been utilized for lymph node imaging in a number of mouse&#160; model systems, a detailed protocol describing HFUS imaging and characterization of the cervical lymph nodes in mice has not been reported. Here, we show that HFUS can be adapted to detect and characterize cervical lymph nodes in mice. Combined B-mode and power Doppler imaging can be used to detect increases in blood flow in immunologically-enlarged cervical nodes. We also describe the use of B-mode imaging to conduct fine needle biopsies of cervical lymph nodes to retrieve lymph tissue for histological&#160; analysis. Finally, software-aided steps are described to calculate changes in lymph node volume and to visualize changes in lymph node morphology following image reconstruction. The ability to visually monitor changes in cervical lymph node biology over time provides a simple and powerful technique for the non-invasive monitoring of cervical lymph node alterations in preclinical mouse models of oral cavity disease.

This protocol describes the application of high-frequency ultrasound (HFUS) for imaging mouse cervical lymph nodes. This technique optimizes visualization and quantification of cervical lymph node morphology, volume and blood flow. Image-guided biopsy of cervical lymph nodes and processing of lymph tissue for histological evaluation is also demonstrated.

High-frequency ultrasound (HFUS) is widely employed as a non-invasive method for imaging internal anatomic structures in experimental small animal ...

Vessel-sparing Excision and Primary Anastomosis

Urethroplasty is considered to be the standard treatment for urethral strictures since it provides excellent long-term success rates. For isolated short bulbar or posterior urethral strictures, urethroplasty by excision and primary anastomosis (EPA) is recommended. As EPA only requires the excision of the narrowed segment and the surrounding spongiofibrosis, a full-thickness transection of the corpus spongiosum, as performed in the traditional transecting EPA (tEPA), is usually unnecessary. Jordan et al. introduced the idea of a vessel-sparing approach in 2007, aiming to reduce surgical trauma, especially to the dual arterial blood supply of the urethra, and, thus, potentially reducing the risk of postoperative erectile dysfunction or glans ischemia. This approach could also be beneficial for subsequent urethral interventions such as redo urethroplasty using a free graft, in which a well-vascularized graft bed is imperative. Nevertheless, these potential benefits are only assumptions as prospective studies comparing the functional outcome of both techniques with validated questionnaires are currently lacking. Moreover, vessel-sparing EPA (vsEPA) should at least be able to provide similar surgical outcomes as tEPA. The aim of this paper is to give an elaborate, step-by-step overview of how to manage patients with isolated short bulbar or posterior urethral strictures with vsEPA. The main objective of this manuscript is to outline the surgical technique and to report the representative surgical outcome. A total of 117 patients were managed according to the described protocol. The analysis was performed on the entire patient cohort and on the bulbar (n = 91) and posterior (n = 26) vsEPA group separately. Success rates were 93.4% and 88.5% for the bulbar and posterior vsEPA, respectively. To conclude, vsEPA, as outlined in the protocol, provides excellent success rates with low complication rates for isolated short bulbar and posterior urethral strictures.

Here, we present an elaborate and efficient protocol to treat isolated short bulbar or posterior urethral strictures with vessel-sparing excision and primary anastomosis.

Urethroplasty is considered to be the standard treatment for urethral strictures since it provides excellent long-term success rates. For isolated short ...

Technical Detail for Robot Assisted Pancreaticoduodenectomy

Since its first report in 2003, robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy (RPD) has gained popularity among pancreatic surgeons. Inherent advantages of the robotic platform, including three-dimensional vision, wristed instruments, and improved ergonomics, allow the surgeon to recapitulate the principles of open pancreatoduodenectomy allowing safe oncologic dissection, hemostasis, and meticulous reconstruction. Over the course of the past decade, significant strides have been achieved in outlining the safety, feasibility, and learning curve of the robotic Whipple. When performed by high volume pancreatic surgeons experienced in RPD, recent comparative effectiveness studies show potential advantages compared to the open technique, including reductions in hospital stay and morbidity. National data also show reductions in conversion rates compared to its laparoscopic counterpart. Although long-term oncologic data are still needed, short-term oncologic surrogates of margin resection and lymph node harvest suggest no compromise in oncologic outcomes. As pancreatic surgeons increasingly integrate robotics into their practice, proficiency-based training and credentialing will be necessary for the safe application and dissemination of RPD. Here, we provide the detailed steps of a robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy performed at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.&#160;

The following manuscript details a stepwise approach to the robot-assisted pancreaticoduodenectomy performed at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

Since its first report in 2003, robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy (RPD) has gained popularity among pancreatic surgeons. Inherent advantages of the robotic ...

Robot-Assisted Radical Antegrade Modular Pancreatosplenectomy Including Resection and Reconstruction of the Spleno-Mesenteric Junction

This article shows the technique of robot-assisted radical antegrade modular pancreatosplenectomy, including resection and reconstruction of the spleno-mesenteric junction, for cancer of the body-tail of the pancreas. The patient is placed supine with the legs parted and a pneumoperitoneum is established and maintained at 10 mmHg. To use the surgical system, four 8 mm ports and one 12 mm port are required. The optic port is placed at the umbilicus. The other ports are placed, on either side, along the pararectal line and the anterior axillary line at the level of the umbilical line. The assistant port (12 mm) is placed along the right pararectal line. Dissection begins by detaching the gastrocolic ligament, thus opening the lesser sac, and by a wide mobilization of the splenic flexure of the colon. The superior mesenteric vein is identified along the inferior border of the pancreas. Lymph node number 8a is removed to permit clear visualization of the common hepatic artery. A tunnel is then created behind the neck of the pancreas. To permit safe resection and reconstruction of the spleno-mesenteric junction, further preemptive dissection is required before dividing the pancreatic neck to bring in clear view all relevant vascular pedicles. Next, the splenic artery is ligated and divided, and the pancreatic neck is divided, with selective ligature of the pancreatic duct. After vein resection and reconstruction, dissection proceeds to complete the clearance of peripancreatic arteries that are peeled off from all lympho-neural tissues. Both celiac ganglia are removed en-bloc with the specimen. The Gerota fascia covering the upper pole of the left kidney is also removed en-bloc with the specimen. Division of short gastric vessels and splenectomy complete the procedure. A drain is left near the pancreatic stump. The round ligament of the liver is mobilized to protect the vessels.

The robotic technique shown herein aims at faithfully reproducing the open procedure for radical treatment of cancer of the body-tail of the pancreas. The protocol also demonstrates the ability to master involvement of major peripancreatic vessels without conversion to open surgery.

This article shows the technique of robot-assisted radical antegrade modular pancreatosplenectomy, including resection and reconstruction of the ...

Robot-Assisted Kidney Transplantation

This paper describes robot-assisted kidney transplantation (RAKT) from a living donor. The robot is docked between the parted legs of the patient, placed in the supine Trendelenburg position. Kidney allografts are provided by a living donor. Before vascular anastomosis, the kidney allograft is prepared by inserting a double-J stent in the ureter, and the temperature for the anastomosis is lowered by wrapping it in an ice-packed gauze. A 12 mm or 8 mm port for the robotic camera and three 8 mm ports for robotic arms are placed. A peritoneal pouch is created for the kidney allograft by raising the peritoneal flaps on both sides over the psoas muscle before dissecting the iliac vessels and bladder. A 6 cm Pfannenstiel incision is made to insert the kidney into the peritoneal pouch, lateral to the right iliac vessels. 
After clamping the external iliac vein with Bulldogs clamps, a venotomy is performed, and the graft renal vein is anastomosed to the external iliac vein in an end-to-side continuous manner with a 6/0 polytetrafluoroethylene suture. After clamping the graft renal vein, the iliac vein is declamped. This is followed by clamping of the external iliac artery, arteriotomy, arterial anastomosis with a 6/0 polytetrafluoroethylene suture, clamping of the graft renal artery, and declamping of the external iliac artery. Reperfusion is then carried out, and ureteroneocystostomy is performed using the Lich-Gregoir technique. The peritoneum is closed at a few locations with polymer locking clips, and a closed-suction drain is placed through one of the working ports. After deflating the pneumoperitoneum, all incisions are closed.

This paper provides technical details for robot-assisted kidney transplantation from a living donor.

This paper describes robot-assisted kidney transplantation (RAKT) from a living donor. The robot is docked between the parted legs of the patient, placed ...

Retzius-Sparing Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy

The technique of Retzius-sparing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RS-RARP) and initial experience with it at a single center are provided. The technique is described step-by-step and further illustrated by a video to enhance reproducibility. Early oncological and functional results were evaluated. In total, 77 patients were included with a median follow-up of 11 months (range: 3-21 months). Fifty-one percent of patients had local high-risk or locally advanced prostate cancer. There were no intra-operative complications, and all high-grade complications (2.6%) were related to pelvic lymph node dissection performed concomitant with RS-RARP. Median operation time was 160 min (range: 122-265 min) and median hospital stay was 3 (range: 3-8) days. A positive surgical margin was reported in 42.9%. One-year biochemical recurrence-free survival was 90.1%. After 6 months, all patients were socially continent and after 1 year, 94.3% were fully continent. Of sexually active patients who underwent at least unilateral nerve-sparing, 43.3% were able to have sexual intercourse. This series underlines the surgical safety of performing RS-RARP by a standardized technique and confirms the beneficial effect on the early return of continence. The patient needs to be informed about the risk of a positive surgical margin.

Robot-assisted Retzius-sparing radical prostatectomy is a technique that enables to preserve urinary continence or facilitates recovery of urinary continence in the majority of patients. Patients must be informed about the risk of a positive surgical margin.

The technique of Retzius-sparing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RS-RARP) and initial experience with it at a single center are provided. The ...

Orthopedic Robot-Assisted Femoral Neck System in the Treatment of Femoral Neck Fracture

Cannulated screw fixation is the main therapy for femoral neck fractures, especially in young patients. The traditional surgical procedure uses C-arm fluoroscopy to place the screw freehand and requires several guide wire adjustments, which increases the operation time and radiation exposure. Repeated drilling can also cause damage to the blood supply and bone quality of the femoral neck, which can be followed by complications such as screw loosening, nonunion, and femoral head necrosis. In order to make fixation more precise and reduce the incidence of complications, our team applied robot-assisted orthopedic surgery for screw placement using the femoral neck system to modify the traditional procedure. This protocol introduces how to import a patient's X-ray information into the system, how to perform screw path planning in software, and how the robotic arm assists in screw placement. Using this method, the surgeons can place the screw successfully the first time, improve the accuracy of the procedure, and avoid radiation exposure. The whole protocol includes the diagnosis of femoral neck fracture; the collection of intraoperative X-ray images; screw path planning in the software; precise placement of the screw under the assistance of the robotic arm by the surgeon; and verification of the implant placement.

This article introduces a method of robot-assisted orthopedic surgery for screw placement during the treatment of femoral neck fracture using the femoral neck system, which allows for more accurate screw placement, improved surgical efficiency, and fewer complications.

Cannulated screw fixation is the main therapy for femoral neck fractures, especially in young patients. The traditional surgical procedure uses C-arm ...

Computer-Aided Three-Dimensional Visualization in the Treatment of Locally Advanced Thyroid Cancer

The diagnosis and treatment of locally advanced thyroid carcinoma are challenging. The challenge lies in the evaluation of the tumor scope and the formulation of an individualized treatment plan. Three-dimensional (3D) visualization has a wide range of applications in the field of medicine, although there are limited applications in thyroid cancer. We previously applied 3D visualization for the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid cancer. Through data collection, 3D modeling, and preoperative evaluation, we can obtain 3D information regarding the tumor outline, determine the extent of tumor invasion, and conduct adequate preoperative preparation and surgical risk assessment. This study aimed to demonstrate the feasibility of 3D visualization in locally advanced thyroid cancer. Computer-aided 3D visualization can be an effective method for accurate preoperative evaluation, the development of surgical methods, shortening the surgical time, and reducing the surgical risks. Furthermore, it can contribute to medical education and doctor-patient communication. We believe that the application of 3D visualization technology can improve outcomes and quality of life in patients with locally advanced thyroid cancer.

In diagnosing and treating locally advanced thyroid cancer, the application of computer-aided three-dimensional reconstruction can provide additional information regarding the tumor scope and anatomic characteristics, thereby assisting in risk assessment and surgical planning.

The diagnosis and treatment of locally advanced thyroid carcinoma are challenging. The challenge lies in the evaluation of the tumor scope and the ...

Transoral Robotic Total Thyroidectomy and Bilateral Central Regional Lymph Node Dissection for Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma

Currently, the common approaches to thyroid surgery include conventional thyroidectomy, bilateral axillo-breast, axillary, retroauricular, and oral vestibule approaches. Essentially, various approaches to thyroid surgery only move the traditional surgical incision to a more concealed position but still leave scars on the body surface. Among them, thyroid surgery via the oral vestibule approach can obtain the best cosmetic outcome through the shortest natural cavity. However, in the early time, thyroid surgery via the oral vestibule approach usually requires three incisions in the mouth and one axillary incision. We have introduced a robotic surgical system into thyroidectomy via the oral vestibule approach and successfully completed total thyroidectomy and bilateral central lymph node dissection. During the operation, only three incisions were made at the oral vestibule without an axillary incision. This article aims to present the unique three-port method of robotic thyroidectomy via oral vestibule for the treatment of patients with papillary thyroid cancer.

The transoral robotic total thyroidectomy and bilateral central regional lymph node dissection using three ports without axillary incision are feasible and safe for early-stage papillary thyroid carcinoma. Here we present the operative techniques of this operation.

Currently, the common approaches to thyroid surgery include conventional thyroidectomy, bilateral axillo-breast, axillary, retroauricular, and oral ...