Single-port robotic subcostal ivor-lewis esophagectomy: single-center data on feasibility and early outcomes

Background: Minimally invasive Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy (MIE) has evolved significantly, with robotic-assisted techniques offering potential advantages in precision and ergonomics. The single-port robotic approach represents an innovative step in esophageal surgery. This study evaluates the feasibility and early outcomes of single-port robotic subcostal Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy.

Method: This is a prospective single-center study analyzing the initial experience with single-port robotic subcostal Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy. Data collection is ongoing and includes approximately 15-18 patients. The primary endpoints include technical feasibility, learning curve, operative time, perioperative complications, postoperative pain, and hospital length of stay.

Results: Preliminary findings suggest that single-port robotic subcostal Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy is technically feasible and safe, even without prior robotic experience. Initial data indicate reduced postoperative pain compared to thoracoscopic approaches, along with potential benefits in surgical ergonomics.

Conclusion: As the first robotic single-port technique introduced in a setting without prior robotic experience, this approach demonstrates promising feasibility and early clinical outcomes. This single-center analysis aims to further define its role in minimally invasive esophageal surgery and its impact on the learning curve for surgeons new to robotic-assisted techniques.

Publication History

Article published online:
04 September 2025