Robotic revisional bariatric surgery: Single-surgeon case series

Background: Bariatric surgery is the only effective treatment for the long-term maintenance of significant weight loss. Minimally invasive revisional procedures are on the rise. Data is lacking in terms of safety, feasibility and outcomes with robotic revisional procedures. Methods: Robotic revisional bariatric procedures (RRBPs) of gastric band to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy, revision of gastro-jejunal anastomosis and stricturoplasty performed during 2009-2013 were retrospectively reviewed. Results: RRBPs were performed on 14 patients with mean age, pre-operative body mass index (BMI) and weight of 45.2±11.4years, 40.1±8.7kg/m² and 109.4±26kg, respectively. The mean operative time, estimated blood loss and length of hospital stay were 220.6±64.3) min, 31±22.7ml and 3.3±1.5days, respectively. There were no conversions, blood transfusions, gastrointestinal leaks, intraoperative complications or mortalities. Conclusion: RRBP can be performed safely without increased morbidity and with the added benefit of a minimally invasive approach.