Robotic esophagectomy with total mediastinal lymphadenectomy using four robotic arms alone in esophageal and esophagogastric cancer (RETML-4): a prospective feasibility study

Robotic-assisted esophagectomy is still in the implementation phase. Robotic surgical systems refine visualization via robotically-enhanced surgical anatomy (RESA), and the stable articulated robotic arms provide precise movements. This prospective feasibility study was conducted to evaluate robotic esophagectomy with total mediastinal lymphadenectomy using four robotic arms exclusively (RETML-4).

The inclusion criterion was clinical stage I–IIIB esophageal cancer with stable general condition. Patients were positioned hemi-prone with single-lung ventilation, and the operation table was tilted until the patient was prone. The first, second, third, and fourth robotic ports were inserted into the ninth intercostal space (ICS) on the angulus inferior scapulae line, seventh ICS on the posterior axillary line, and the fifth and third ICS on the mid-axillary line, respectively. RETML-4 was performed by precise sharp dissection in wide stable operation fields, with countertraction created by a tip-up fenestrated grasper with gauze. Esophagectomy was performed separately for the middle to lower, and upper esophagus. After mobilizing the middle to lower esophagus and performing lymph node dissection, the upper esophagus was mobilized, with bilateral lymph node dissection along the recurrent laryngeal nerves. The assistant surgeon was involved only during removing gauze and collecting harvested lymph nodes in the thorax.

RETML-4 was performed in all ten patients enrolled in 2018. The median postoperative hospital stay was 15 days, and the complication rate was 60%. Nine cases achieved R0 resection. Recurrence occurred in two cases.

RETML-4 is feasible, and may facilitate minimally invasive esophagectomy by providing precise instrument movements and RESA.