Radical prostatectomy using the Hinotori robot‐assisted surgical system: Docking‐free design may contribute to reduction in postoperative pain

Abstract Background The docking‐free design of the Japanese Hinotori surgical robotic system allows the robotic arm to avoid trocar grasping, thereby minimising excessive abdominal wall stress. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of robotic‐assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) using the Hinotori system and to explore the potential contribution of its docking‐free design to postoperative pain reduction. Methods This study reviewed the clinical records of 94 patients who underwent RARP: 48 patients in the Hinotori group and 46 in the da Vinci Xi group. Results Hinotori group had significantly longer operative and console times ( p = 0.030 and p = 0.029, respectively). Perioperative complications and oncologic outcomes did not differ between the two groups. On postoperative day 4, the rate of decline from the maximum visual analogue scale score was marginally significant in the Hinotori group ( p = 0.062). Conclusions The docking‐free design may contribute to reducing postoperative pain.