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The rise of robotic colorectal surgery: better for patients and better for surgeons

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Abstract

Robotic colorectal surgery represents a major technological advancement in the treatment of patients with colorectal disease. Several recent randomized controlled trials comparing robotic colorectal surgery with laparoscopic surgery have demonstrated improved short-term patient outcomes in the robotic group. Whilst the primary focus of research in robotic surgery has been on patient outcomes, the robotic platform also provides unparalleled benefits for the surgeon, including improved ergonomics and surgeon comfort, with the potential to reduce occupational injuries and prolong career longevity. It is becoming clear that robotic surgical systems improve patient outcomes and may provide significant benefits to the surgical workforce.

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The authors declare that no funds, grants, or other support were received during the preparation of this manuscript. The authors have no relevant financial or non-financial interests to disclose.

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All authors contributed to the study’s conception and design. Material preparation, data collection and analysis were performed by TY. The first draft of the manuscript was written by all authors and all authors commented on previous versions of the manuscript. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.

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Correspondence to Trevor M. Yeung.

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Yeung, T.M., Larkins, K.M., Warrier, S.K. et al. The rise of robotic colorectal surgery: better for patients and better for surgeons. J Robotic Surg 18, 69 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11701-024-01822-z

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