Current Status and Future Perspectives of Superior Mesenteric Artery Dissection in Robotic Pancreaticoduodenectomy: A Scoping Review of Technical Variations in the Robotic Era.

Background

Dissection around the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) is a key step for local clearance of periampullary cancers in pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). Since the 2000s, SMA-first approaches have gained popularity in open surgery to allow early vascular control and resectability assessment. With the rise of robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy (RPD), various SMA dissection techniques have been adapted to the robotic setting.

Objective

To map current evidence on SMA dissection techniques in RPD and summarize technical variations. Eligibility Criteria and Sources of Evidence: A PubMed search identified 116 records. After title and abstract screening and full-text review, 27 studies focusing on SMA dissection for periampullary tumors in RPD with sufficient technical detail were included. Studies on open/laparoscopic PD, lacking technical description, or reporting duplicate techniques were excluded. Charting

Methods

Data were charted based on the SMA approach type, surgical details, and institution.

Results

Among the 27 included studies, multiple approaches were identified-anterior, right posterior, left posterior, uncinate, and mesenteric-each adapted to the robotic platform. Techniques varied in exposure, lymphadenectomy, and vessel control.

Conclusions

This scoping review reveals diverse SMA dissection strategies in RPD. While technical innovation is progressing, further studies are warranted to standardize approaches and assess their oncologic and surgical outcomes.