Robotic surgery advances in cancer treatment

Medical experts are highlighting the rapid advancement and increasing dominance of robotic surgery in treating various cancers. At the ‘Spotlight on Robotic Surgery 2026’ conference in Naples, specialists noted that robotic techniques are nearing a point where they may surpass traditional laparoscopic surgery in prevalence.

Clinical studies discussed at the event indicate significant benefits for esophageal and gastric cancer treatments. Research published in The Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology suggests that robotic surgery may offer superior five-year survival rates for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma compared to conventional methods. Additionally, data from Japan indicates that robotic gastrectomies can reduce blood loss by 33-40% and decrease the risk of converting to open surgery.

In Sassari, the Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria has completed 250 robotic procedures since February 2022, including 169 for colorectal neoplasms. The facility is among the first in Europe to utilize the Da Vinci Single Port platform, which allows for highly minimally invasive operations through a single five-centimeter incision or, in specific cases, through the anal orifice without external skin incisions.