Robotic colon cancer surgery using the Da Vinci Xi, Hugo™ RAS, or Versius® systems is feasible when performed by experienced surgeons, according to the first prospective comparative study of these three platforms. The COMPAR-CRC trial, published in Laparoscopic, Endoscopic and Robotic Surgery (DOI 10.1016/j.lers.2025.10.001), enrolled 45 patients undergoing robotic colon resection between February and December 2024. Two experienced colorectal surgeons performed 15 procedures on each platform across two surgical units.
The primary outcomes—conversion to laparoscopy or open surgery and intra-operative complications—revealed notable differences. No conversions occurred in the Da Vinci group, whereas two conversions to laparoscopy were recorded with Hugo™ RAS and three with Versius®. One intra-operative instrument malfunction occurred with Hugo™ RAS, and one surgical complication was reported in each group. Although these differences were not statistically significant, they suggest potential reliability concerns with newer systems.
Secondary outcomes showed no significant variations in postoperative recovery or oncological outcomes. However, Versius® cases required more frequent use of laparoscopic energy devices (p < 0.001), indicating that surgeons may need to rely on auxiliary tools more often with this platform. Hugo™ RAS was associated with a longer total operating room time (p = 0.022) and a longer incision length (p = 0.005), which could impact patient recovery and resource utilization.
Dr. [Author Name], the lead researcher, stated, "Robotic colorectal surgery with all three platforms is feasible when performed by expert surgeons. While early outcomes are encouraging, larger comparative trials are needed to confirm differences in recovery and oncological efficacy." The study underscores the importance of careful platform selection, as technical parameters like operating time and incision length may influence surgical workflow and patient outcomes.
The COMPAR-CRC trial is part of the broader COMPAR study, which aims to evaluate multiplatform robotic surgery. The findings highlight that while Da Vinci remains a benchmark with zero conversions, Hugo™ RAS and Versius® offer viable alternatives but may require adaptation. As hospitals increasingly adopt newer robotic systems, understanding these differences is critical for optimizing surgical care and managing expectations.
The research was published in Laparoscopic, Endoscopic and Robotic Surgery (LERS), an academic journal focusing on minimally invasive surgery (original source). LERS covers clinical research across specialties including general surgery, colorectal surgery, urology, and gynecology, and promotes the evolution of medical education in minimally invasive techniques.
