Robotic surgery for colorectal cancer in Japan

In Japan, robotic surgery for gastrointestinal cancers has been rapidly spreading since the public health insurance covered the cost of robotic surgery at April 2018. In particular, robotic surgery for rectal cancer has increased dramatically.
Robotic surgery is able to dissect more precise and easier in narrow and deep pelvis by manipulating forceps with a multi-joint function under a stable 3-dimensional view. Robotic surgery for rectal cancer also has a potential to be more effective in difficult cases than laparoscopic surgery due to these advantages. No overall obvious evidence has not shown that robotic surgery is superior to laparoscopic or open surgery. On the other hand, several merits of robotic surgery for colorectal cancer has reported, such as the low frequency of urinary and sexual dysfunction, shorter learning curve, better education with dual console, and less physical and mental stress on the surgeon.
Most of the robotic procedures for colorectal cancer performed in Japan are low anterior resection, ISR, Miles’ operation for lower rectal cancer. As extended procedures, Lateral lymph node dissection, multivisceral resection, TPE are performed at advanced institute.
Robotic colectomy that is not covered by insurance in Japan, is performed in a limited facility as a clinical trial to investigate safety.
Here, we would like to introduce the current status and evidence of robotic surgery for colorectal cancer in Japan.