Initial experience of robot-assisted cholecystectomy at Pir Abdul Qadir Shah Jeelani Institute of Medical Sciences Gambat.

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the safety, learning curve and outcomes of RAC using the Versus Surgical System® in a public sector hospital. Methods: Retrospective Observational study. Setting: Pir Abdul Qadir Shah Jeelani Institute of Medical Sciences Gambat, Pakistan. Period: 1^st December 2022 to 30^th June 2023. Methods: Analyzed patients who underwent RAC Key parameters assessed include docking and console times, conversion rates, intraoperative complications, and postoperative outcomes. This study also analyzed the RAC learning curve. Results: A total of 50 patients (74% female) underwent RAC. The median docking time was 20 minutes (range: 10–40), improving significantly after the first five cases (p < 0.00001). The mean console time decreased from 156.0 min in the initial 25 cases to 105.6 min in subsequent 25 cases (p < 0.00001), demonstrating a clear learning curve. Only single conversion to open procedure (2%) occurred due to hemorrhage. No bile duct injuries or postoperative complications were observed, Similarly, no readmission at 90-day follow-up was recorded. Conclusion: RAC using the Versius Surgical System® is a safe technique. Regarding the learning curve, despite initial technical challenges, experience leads to reduced operative times. Further studies are required to compare outcomes and cost-effectiveness in resource-limited hospitals.