TPT 1.07 A Comparative Statistical Analysis of Postoperative Complications and Clavien–Dindo Severity in Robotic versus Laparoscopic Gastrointestinal Surgery
TL;DR
Robotic surgery did not demonstrate reduced postoperative-morbidity or CD-severity compared with laparoscopy compared with laparoscopy, and complication severity appeared primarily driven by patient factors and case complexity.
Abstract
As robotic platforms become increasingly adopted across colorectal and general surgical pathways, it is essential to understand their effect on postoperative morbidity. The Clavien–Dindo (CD) classification provides a validated framework for comparing complication severity. This study analysed complication rates and CD profiles following robotic and laparoscopic gastrointestinal procedures at a UK tertiary centre. A retrospective-review of all robotic and laparoscopic procedures performed between 2024–2025 was undertaken. Procedures included colorectal resections, small-bowel operations, hernia repairs, adhesiolysis, and stoma surgery. Complications and their corresponding CD categories were extracted from postoperative documentation. Comparisons between approaches used:Chi-square or Fisher’s exact test for overall complication rates, depending on frequency.Ordinal logistic regression to compare CD severity (I–V).Mann–Whitney U tests for length of stay (LOS).Binary logistic regression for predictors of any complication. Complications occurred across both groups, including ileus, infection, bleeding, electrolyte imbalance, wound issues, and pulmonary events. CD I–II complications predominated in both cohorts. CD-III events requiring intervention—including returns to theatre or radiological drainage—were observed at similar proportions. CD-IV complications (e.g., sepsis requiring organ support) occurred infrequently in both groups. Readmissions were comparable, typically for ileus or postoperative infection. Statistical-testing demonstrated no-significant difference in overall complication rates, CD category distribution, or LOS between robotic and laparoscopic procedures (all p > 0.05). Robotic surgery did not demonstrate reduced postoperative-morbidity or CD-severity compared with laparoscopy. Complication severity appeared primarily driven by patient factors and case complexity. Larger, procedure-specific studies are warranted.