Utility guideline and considerations for the novel Hugo™ RAS (robotic-assisted surgery) system in colorectal surgery: surgical outcomes and initial experience in a tertiary center

• DOI: 10.1007/s00384-024-04715-7
• Publication Date: 2024-09-19T14:30:35Z
• Authors: Antonio Arroyo; Ana Sánchez-Romero; Álvaro Soler-Silva; Saray Quinto; Francisco López-R...; María-José Alcaide; Mónica Serrano-Na...; Elena Miranda; José-Luis Muñoz; Luis Sánchez-Guillén
• Keywords: Hugo (TM) RAS system; Male; Aged, 80 and over; Adult; Research; Surgical innovations; Robotic surgery; Middle Aged; Length of Stay; Tertiary Care Centers; Treatment Outcome; Postoperative Complications; Robotic Surgical Procedures; Colorectal surgery; Humans; Female; Ergonomics; Colorectal Surgery; Aged

Abstract Purpose A novel robotic platform—Hugo™ RAS (robotic-assisted surgery) system—has been introduced with several innovations that may prove advantageous for surgeons, such as an open console and four interchangeable modular arms. Our study aims to evaluate this platform’s safety, efficacy, and potential impact on the surgical treatment of colorectal pathology.

Methods Patients underwent robotic-assisted colorectal procedures with the Hugo™ RAS system at the General University Hospital of Elche from October 2023 to July 2024. Patient characteristics, intraoperative and postoperative variables, and robotic technical issues were recorded.

Results Forty consecutive patients were included (14 right, 13 left, and 8 rectum neoplasms; 4 left diverticulitis; and 1 ileocecal Crohn’s disease). The patients’ characteristics were as follows: median age, 69.5 years; 24 males and 16 females; 45% ASA III–IV; and Charlson Comorbidity Index > 5:42.5%. We recorded four medical (2 anemia, 1 phlebitis, and 1 admission to the intensive care unit) and three surgical (1 hematoma of the incision, 1 intestinal occlusion, and 1 dehiscence of the anastomosis) postoperative complications. We had no conversions neither open nor laparoscopic surgery. The average hospital stay was 3 days, with no mortality or readmission.

Conclusions The Hugo™ RAS system is safe and feasible for colorectal procedures. The modularity of the arms provides the versatility of configurations adjusted depending on the patient’s body features and the surgeon’s preferences and greater adaptability to operating rooms. The open console is highly comfortable and ergonomic for the surgeon, allowing communication with the operating room environment.

Trial registration NCT06512480