Robotic-assisted single incision myomectomy in large myoma cases.

INTRODUCTION: Laparo-endoscopic single-incision surgery (LESS) has been developed and gradually adopted for both benign and malignant gynecological procedures. However, LESS has been hindered for use in procedures like myomectomy by limitations in natural architecture and instrumentation, especially in suturing. The da Vinci system features a single-site platform and wristed needle driver, which may help overcome conventional LESS limitations. This case report study describes the feasibility of this robotic single-site (RSS) platform in large myoma cases and offers suggestions.

RESULTS: Two cases of myomectomy with large myomas (with maximum diameters of 160 and 120 mm) with different locations, were addressed by RSS. Operative time was 180 and 240 minutes. Estimated blood loss was 200 and 150 ml. Pathologic analysis revealed uterine leiomyomas of 910 and 870 grams. No serious peri- or post-operative complications occurred.

DISCUSSION: Myomectomy with large myoma has presented a surgical challenge. RSS myomectomy appears to be a safe and feasible technique for it regardless of its localization. Advantages include less postoperative pain, fast recovery, less impact on quality of life, and improved cosmesis. LESS surgery has been challenging concerning suturing and multi-laparoscopic or multi-port robotic myomectomy can be difficult to extract myoma, especially with morcellation. RSS could be a solution that enables ease of manipflation and extraction.