Safety and Feasibility of Cholecystectomy with the Hugo? RAS: Proof of Setup Guides and First-In-Human German Experience

Introduction: The Hugo RAS robotic platform by Medtronic was recently certified for human use in Europe. Several centers have gained initial experience with this system in urology and gynecology. However, few data about its feasibility and safety in general surgery have been published. Methods: The first-in-human surgical procedures with the Hugo RAS in Germany were performed at our hospital in February 2023. We report our early experience with robotic cholecystectomy using this new platform. The primary aim was to test the setup guides of the manufacturer and to evaluate the safety and feasibility of Hugo RAS for this procedure. Results: A modified setup with two 11-mm ports and two 8-mm ports without an assistant port was used in 14 consecutive cases. A 30 degrees or a 0 degrees camera, a bipolar grasper or a Maryland on the left arm, a monopolar scissors on the right arm, and a double-fenestrated grasper on the additional arm were mounted. Clip application and gallbladder extraction were performed by the bedside assistant through the right arm 11-mm port. There were no complications, no adverse events, and no conversions. Arm collisions were reduced through slight corrections in trocar positions. Conclusion: Robotic-assisted cholecystectomy with the Hugo RAS was safe and feasible. The modularity of robotic arms allows individual setup modifications which may be of advantage for patients and surgeons. (c) 2023 S. Karger AG, Basel Plain Language Summary The article presents technical details and results of the first 14 robotically assisted gallbladder removals performed in Germany with the use of a new-generation surgical robot named Hugo RAS. Setup and configurations of the platform for this type of surgical procedure recommended by the manufacturer were modified by the authors to achieve optimal results. The procedures were performed safely and without complications. Advantages and disadvantages of the Hugo RAS robotic platform for its use in visceral surgery are discussed. (c) 2023 S. Karger AG, Basel