Robotic versus laparoscopic abdominoperineal resections for low rectal cancer: A single‐center randomized controlled trial

Abstract Background and Objectives Robotic surgery for rectal cancer is gaining popularity, but persuasive evidence on reducing surgical trauma is still lacking. This study compared robotic and laparoscopic abdominoperineal resections (APRs) for the risk of postoperative complications in low rectal cancer. Methods Between December 2013 and 2016, patients with rectal cancer ≤5 cm from anal verge, cT1‐T3 N0‐1, or ycT1‐T3 Nx stage, and no distant metastases were enrolled in a single‐center, randomized, controlled trial. Eligible patients were randomly allocated to robotic or laparoscopic APRs at 1:1 ratio. The primary outcome was 30‐day postoperative complication rate (Clavien−Dindo grade II or higher) of the intent‐to‐treat population. The trial registration number is NCT01985698 ( http://www.clinicaltrials.gov ). Results Totally 347 eligible patients were enrolled: 174 in robotic and 173 in laparoscopic group. Robotic APRs significantly reduced postoperative complication rate (13.2% vs. 23.7%, p = 0.013), also reduced open conversion rate (0% vs. 2.9%, p = 0.030), intraoperative hemorrhage (median, 100 vs. 130 ml; p < 0.001), 30‐day readmission rate (2.3% vs. 6.9%; p = 0.044), postoperative hospital stay (median, 5.0 vs. 7.0 days; p < 0.001), and improved urinary and sexual function. No significant difference was observed in long‐term oncological outcomes. Conclusions Compared with laparoscopic APRs, robotic APRs significantly reduced surgical trauma and promoted postoperative recovery.