Robotic-Assisted Epiphrenic and Mid-Oesophageal Diverticulectomy: A Tertiary Centre Experience.

BACKGROUND

Surgical management of oesophageal pulsion diverticula is advised when symptoms significantly impair quality of life. Robotics can aid in transhiatal dissection in diverticulectomy, but available evidence is limited.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review of all consecutive robotic-assisted oesophageal diverticulectomies with Heller myotomy and Dor fundoplication at a high-volume centre between 2015 and 2024 was conducted. Surgical technique, patient characteristics, and short- and long-term outcomes were recorded. As this was an observational study with anonymised data, ethical approval was waived.

RESULTS

4/14 patients required abdominal and intrathoracic approaches, and none were converted to open surgery. Trocar-related abdominal wall bleeding required reintervention; mortality was zero. No leaks or strictures were noted; all reported symptom relief, one reflux and two dysphagia recurrences without strictures or recurrences.

CONCLUSIONS

Robotic-assisted diverticulectomy performed by experienced surgeons appears feasible and associated with acceptable short-term outcomes. Further prospective studies are needed to confirm long-term safety and efficacy.