EVALUATING INTELLIGENT DEVICE-ASSISTED PROSTATE RESECTION FOR ULTRA-LOW RECTAL CANCER: IMPLICATIONS FOR RECOVERY AND ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE

Abstract

Background: Robotic surgery, particularly robotic intersphincteric resection (ISR) for ultra-low rectal cancer, is posited to offer advantages over traditional laparoscopic approaches, yet objective data are scarce. This study aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of robotic ISR in the context of enhanced recovery protocols that could facilitate quicker returns to training and competition for athlete patients. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 124 patients diagnosed with ultra-low rectal cancer who underwent either robotic ISR (RISR group, n=56) or laparoscopic ISR (LISR group, n=68) from December 2015 to December 2019. We compared pathological data and perioperative clinical outcomes, focusing on metrics critical to athlete patients such as operation time, blood loss, and recovery time. Results: The RISR group demonstrated a higher body mass index than the LISR group (P<0.001) and showed reduced operation times below the peritoneal reflection and in total, albeit with longer instrument preparation times. Notably, the RISR group experienced less blood loss, shorter postoperative catheter times, and longer rectum free lengths and distal resection margins (P<0.001). Pathological outcomes did not significantly differ between the groups. These findings underscore the potential of robotic ISR to enhance surgical outcomes and reduce recovery periods. Conclusions: Robotic ISR appears safe and effective for treating ultra-low rectal cancer, with potential benefits that are especially pertinent to athletes who require minimized downtime and optimized recovery. The findings advocate for the integration of robotic surgeries into treatment plans for athlete patients facing significant surgical interventions, suggesting that larger randomized controlled trials are necessary to further validate these advantages.