Robotics for Pelvic Floor Disorders: Rectopexy and Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Various surgical options exist for patients with pelvic organ prolapse. Conventionally, open procedures have been performed laparoscopically with similar results and fewer morbidity. However, widespread use of laparoscopy to treat rectal and vaginal vault prolapse has been limited by the technical challenges of performing these surgeries with a minimally invasive approach. Robotic surgery allows for improved visualization and ergonomics, enabling the surgeon to perform complicated procedures more easily. Robotically assisted laparoscopic rectopexies and sacrocolpopexies have been shown to have excellent results but they increase operative time and cost. Further investigation is needed to demonstrate clear advantages to using this approach over conventional laparoscopy.