Robot-assisted vs. laparoscopic cholecystectomy in children: a meta-analysis with systematic review of comparative studies

This meta-analysis aimed to compare the safety and effectiveness of robot-assisted cholecystectomy (RAC) versus laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). A comprehensive search of online databases was carried out to identify studies comparing laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) with robot-assisted cholecystectomy (RAC). Safety outcomes assessed included operative complications and conversion rates, while efficacy parameters comprised length of hospital stay, total operative time, postoperative analgesic use, and procedure cost. The meta-analysis was conducted using a random-effects model. A total of 157 articles were screened, 5 studies meeting the inclusion criteria, encompassing 548 children. Included studies reported instances of shorter LOS, reduced analgesic requirements, lower conversion and reintervention rates, and fewer postoperative complications in the RAC groups; however, none of these differences reached statistical significance. This meta-analysis found no meaningful differences between RAC and LC regarding safety and efficacy outcomes, suggesting that RAC is comparable to LC in the pediatric population.