Robot-assisted laparoscopic cholecystectomy and fundoplication: initial experience with the Da Vinci system

We report on our first five robot-assisted laparoscopic cholecystectomies a nd one fundoplication (Da Vinci system). No postoperative complications wer e observed. For the cholecystectomies (three elective and two acute cases) mean operation time was Ih 35 min, and mean hospital stay was 5 days; for f undoplication the operation time was 2 h 15 min. The main advantages seem t o be improved visualization by using a stereo camera und ease of precise di ssection by micromechanical instruments directed by masterslaves from a dis tant console. The main disadvantage is the high cost. To fully evaluate the benefit for the patient, prospective clinical trials are warranted.