Clinical outcomes of robotic-enhanced view totally extraperitoneal (r-eTEP) technique for ventral hernia repair: a systematic review

Despite its advantages, laparoscopic enhanced-view totally extraperitoneal (eTEP) presents substantial technological obstacles. To overcome these challenges, the development of a technique called robotic-assisted eTEP (r-eTEP) came. Hence, we aimed to give surgeons and decision makers a clear grasp of procedural outcomes, technological challenges and integration feasibility, this study compiles and assesses clinical literature on r-eTEP. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed and Cochrane from their inception to June 2025. Eligible studies were adult patients (≥18 years) undergoing robotic-assisted enhanced-view completely extraperitoneal (r-eTEP) repair for ventral or incisional hernias. perioperative and postoperative clinical outcomes following robotic-assisted enhanced-view totally extraperitoneal (r-eTEP) surgery for ventral or incisional hernias were collected. Nine clinical studies comprising patients who underwent robotic-enhanced-view totally extraperitoneal (r-eTEP) repair for ventral hernias were included. The length of hospital stays (LOS) frequently favoured r-eTEP. The median length of stay (LOS) for the r-eTEP cohort was 2 days, while the median LOS for the laparoscopic eTEP cohort was 3 days (p<0.001). Follow-up lengths ranged from 6 to 24 months. Ultimately, especially when performed by experienced surgeons who have gone through a thorough learning process, robotic-assisted eTEP treatment shows safety, efficiency and effectiveness for ventral hernia repair.