Beyond the Band-Aid: Robot-Assisted Laparoscopy for Splenic Aneurysms—A Systematic Review

Splenic artery aneurysm (SAA) is characterized by a weakening and bulging of splenic artery. Robot-assisted (RA) laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive surgical technique. This systematic review aimed to assess the use of RA laparoscopic surgery to manage SAA. Five medical databases were used to identify studies that investigated the use of robotic devices in laparoscopic SAA management in humans. Original peer-reviewed articles were included. Two authors independently screened articles and extracted data on factors including patient demographics, surgical procedures, and outcomes. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses search identified 7 studies with a total of 28 patients who underwent RA laparoscopic surgery for SAA. The studies reported successful surgeries using various techniques, including end-to-end anastomosis, ligation, and graft placement. 3-dimensional printed models were used in 1 study as an aid for preoperative surgery planning. Mean operation time was 210 minutes, and 3 complications were reported (robotic arm failure during surgery and 2 conversions to open surgery). RA laparoscopic surgery offers several advantages more than traditional open surgery for SAA management. However, more research is needed to confirm these potential benefits and establish RA laparoscopic surgery as a standard treatment option for SAA. Future studies should involve larger patient groups, compare this method to traditional techniques, and evaluate its cost-effectiveness. Additionally, incorporating advancements like mixed reality for preoperative planning and 3D printing to improve surgical planning and patient communication.