Robotic-assisted laparoscopy is a feasible method for resection of deep infiltrating endometriosis, especially in the rectosigmoid area

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to compare outcomes of mini-invasive surgical treatment of endometriosis, especially conventional laparoscopy with robotic-assisted laparoscopy, and to evaluate the quality of life. METHODS: One hundred three consecutive patients with endometriosis who had surgery from 2014 to 2017 owing to an indication of pain were enrolled in this retrospective study. The majority (n = 77, 75%) of patients underwent conventional laparoscopy and 18 (17%) had robotic-assisted laparoscopy. The quality of life was postoperatively assessed with a questionnaire. RESULTS: The rates of parametrectomy (76% vs. 45%,) and rectovaginal resection (28% vs. 4%) were significantly higher in robotic-assisted laparoscopy than in laparoscopy. Additionally, the rate of bowel operations (50% vs. 17%), especially the shaving technique, was higher in robotic-assisted laparoscopy surgery than in laparoscopy (39% vs. 8%). There was no difference in the rate of postoperative complications between laparoscopy and robotic-assisted laparoscopy. Most (91%) of the patients who answered the questionnaire felt that surgical treatment had relieved their pain. In the laparoscopic and robotic-assisted groups, 88% of respondents felt that their quality of life had improved after surgery. CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that robotic-assisted laparoscopy is a feasible method to resect deep infiltrating endometriosis, especially in the rectosigmoid area.