Laparoscopic robotic-assisted restorative proctocolectomy and ileal J-pouch-anorectal anastomosis in children

Purpose Total proctocolectomy with ileal J-pouch-anorectal anastomosis (IPAA) remains the preferred surgical treatment for ulcerative colitis (UC) in children. Considering the well-known advantages of minimally invasive approach, and its main application for the deep pelvis, robotic surgery may be used in UC reconstructive procedures. The aim of the study is to report our experience with Robotic IPAA in children. Methods Single surgeon experience on Robotic IPAA were prospectively included. Data on patient demographics, surgical details, complications, and length of stay (LOS), were collected. Results Fifteen patients were included. Median age was 13.2 years, median body weight 45 kg. Median operative time was 240 min. Median LOS was 7 days and mean follow-up time 1 year. No intraoperative complication occurred. Five postoperative complications happened: 3 minors treated conservatively (CD I-II), 2 majors needing reintervention under anesthesia (CD IIIb). No mortality was observed. Conclusion Our preliminary experience reveals that Robotic IPAA is a safe and feasible option for the surgical treatment of UC in children. A bigger patient sample and a long-term follow-up are needed to confirm our findings.