Robotically Assisted Gastric Resections Using the hinotori™: A Cadaveric Feasibility Study.

INTRODUCTION: In this first preclinical evaluation study of the hinotori™ system in gastric resection procedure, its capabilities to perform distal and total gastrectomy while using human cadaver models were evaluated. METHODS: Three robotic distal gastrectomies (RADGs) and one total gastrectomy were performed in human cadavers using the same setup. A delta-shaped anastomosis in the RADG procedures were performed with a manual stapler. RESULTS: The mean operative time for three distal gastrectomies was 118 min, while the total gastrectomy procedure focused on the resection only. The dissection could be made up to pulmonary veins, while the entire setup was kept. The procedures were done safely according to the surgical standards with smooth instrument and overall performance without any complications seen. An ergonomic surgeon cockpit and head rest supported the outcome. CONCLUSION: Docking-free design and human arm-like movement with a high degree of operation arm mobility showed a wide range of motion of the wristed robotic instruments. This could be beneficial for multiquadrant procedures resulting in potential shorter procedures times with smother performance, which should be evaluated in further studies.