Robotic-Assisted Nissen Fundoplication in Pediatric Patients: A Matched Cohort Study

Background: Nissen Fundoplication (NF) is a frequently performed procedure in children. Robotic-assisted Nissen Fundoplication (RNF), with the utilization of the Senhance (R) Surgical System (SSS (R)) (Asensus Surgical (R) Inc., Durham, NC, USA) featuring 3 mm instruments, aims to improve precision and safety in pediatric surgery. This matched cohort study assesses the safety and feasibility of RNF in children using the SSS (R), comparing it with Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication (LNF). Methods and Results: Twenty children underwent RNF with the SSS (R) between 2020 to 2023 and were 1:1 matched with twenty LNF cases retrospectively selected from 2014 to 2023. Both groups were similar regarding male/female ratio, age, and weight. Two of the twenty RNF cases (10%) experienced intraoperative complications, whereas three in the LNF group of whom two required reinterventions. The observed percentage of postoperative complications was 5% in the RNF group compared to 15% in the LNF group (p = 0.625). The operative times in the RNF group significantly dropped towards the second study period (p = 0.024). Conclusions: Utilizing SSS (R) for NF procedures in children is safe and feasible. Observational results may tentatively suggest that growing experiences and continued development will lead to better outcomes based on more accurate and safe surgery for children.