Minimally Invasive Robotic Endoscopic Lipoabdominoplasty for Rectus Diastasis: A Clinical and Demographic Case Series.

BACKGROUND

Rectus diastasis is frequently associated with abdominal contour deformity and functional impairment of the abdominal wall. Although lipoabdominoplasty has progressively evolved toward less invasive approaches, the incorporation of robotic assistance may further improve visualization, precision, and surgical control. This study describes the demographic and clinical characteristics of patients undergoing minimally invasive robotic endoscopic lipoabdominoplasty (MIRELA) for rectus diastasis and reports the author's initial clinical experience with this robotic-assisted approach.

METHODS

A descriptive case series was conducted involving 50 patients who underwent MIRELA with robotic correction of rectus diastasis. Demographic data, clinical characteristics, diastasis severity, associated umbilical hernia, and patient-reported preoperative complaints were analyzed. Rectus diastasis was classified as mild (<3 cm), moderate (3-5 cm), or severe (>5 cm). Concomitant umbilical hernia repair was performed when indicated.

RESULTS

The mean age was 39.2 ± 4.9 years, and the mean body mass index was 21.8 ± 3.4 kg/m2. The mean rectus diastasis width was 3.27 ± 1.0 cm. Diastasis severity was mild in 32.0%, moderate in 48.0%, and severe in 20.0% of patients. Umbilical hernia was present in 20.0%. The most frequent preoperative complaint was abdominal bulging or contour deformity (62.0%), followed by other aesthetic and functional concerns related to the abdominal wall.

CONCLUSIONS

MIRELA appears to be a feasible robotic-assisted minimally invasive approach for rectus diastasis repair in selected patients, allowing correction of abdominal wall defects while preserving the principles of modern lipoabdominoplasty.