Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Treatment of Bowel, Bladder, and Ureteral Endometriosis

BACKGROUND: Endometriosis commonly affects the pelvic organs but can also affect organs outside the pelvis and is then termed extragenital endometriosis. CASES: Successful robotically assisted laparoscopic management of extragenital endometriosis, specifically, endometriosis of the bowel, bladder, and ureter in 5 patients. CONCLUSION: A substantial body of evidence supports the laparoscopic approach as the preferred method for many procedures; yet, a majority of procedures today still are performed by laparotomy. This preference for open procedures is likely due to the lack of trained endoscopic surgeons, the difficulty in obtaining proper instruments, and the long learning curve of operative laparoscopy. The recent advent of computer-enhanced technology may provide the bridge necessary for more surgeons to incorporate laparoscopic surgery in the treatment of complex cases.