Advances in Robotic Colorectal Cancer Surgery: Single-Port vs. Multiport Systems

A comparative study shows that single-port robotic systems have short-term safety and feasibility comparable to the da Vinci Xi for colorectal cancer surgery.

In this retrospective cohort (n=59), novel single-port platforms (n=21) were compared with the multiport da Vinci Xi (n=38). Primary endpoints were short-term safety and feasibility across intraoperative and postoperative measures. Single-port cases had longer mean operative time (298.9 ± 76.1 min vs. 227.8 ± 70.2 min; p<0.001) but a two-day shorter median postoperative stay (8.0 vs. 10.0 days; p=0.04) and higher cosmetic satisfaction scores (7.71 ± 1.01 vs. 6.66 ± 0.91; p<0.001).

Minimizing incision burden while preserving oncologic quality can shorten hospital stay and improve patient-centered outcomes—key priorities in contemporary minimally invasive colorectal care. This study provides a practical update on platform selection for selected colorectal resections.

By demonstrating single-port platforms as a viable alternative to multiport systems for selected procedures, the data recalibrate expectations, weighing longer operative times against potential gains in recovery and cosmesis.

Complication rates were similar between groups, predominantly Clavien–Dindo I–II; there was one Grade IIIa gastrointestinal bleed in the single-port cohort that was managed endoscopically. No open conversions occurred in either arm, indicating comparable conversion risk.

Risk-management strategies include structured team training, deliberate early-case selection during the learning curve, and balanced patient counseling about operative time and recovery expectations.