Prospective study compares three robotic platforms for colon resection

Objective

Since the introduction of the Da Vinci^® robotic system, robot-assisted colon resection has gained popularity because of its the potential technical advantages. Recently, two new CE-marked platforms have become available in Europe: Hugo^™ RAS and Versius^®. We present the first prospective case series comparing these three robotic systems.

Methods

This exploratory, prospective study enrolled 45 consecutive adult patients undergoing robotic colon resection between February and December 2024, as part of the COMPAR trial. Two experienced colorectal surgeons performed all procedures across two surgical units. Each robotic platform was used in 15 cases. The primary outcomes were conversion to laparoscopy or open surgery and intra-operative complications. The secondary outcomes included post-operative recovery, oncological results, and platform-specific technical parameters.

Results

The mean age was 66.8 years and 68.9% of patients underwent surgery for colon cancer. No conversions occurred in the Da Vinci group, whereas 2 and 3 conversions to laparoscopy were recorded with Hugo™ RAS and Versius®, respectively. One intra-operative instrument malfunction occurred with Hugo™ RAS, and one surgical complication was reported in each group. No significant differences emerged in post-operative recovery or oncological outcomes. Versius® cases required more frequent use of laparoscopic energy devices (p < 0.001). Hugo™ RAS was associated with a longer total operating room time (p = 0.022) and longer incision length (p = 0.005).

Conclusion

Robotic colorectal surgery with all three platforms is feasible when performed by expert surgeons. While early outcomes are encouraging, larger comparative trials are needed to confirm differences in recovery and oncological efficacy.