Economic cost analysis of robotic versus laparoscopic left lateral segment liver resection

Objective The purpose of this study was to compare the economic outcomes of robotic versus laparoscopic left lateral segment liver resection (LLS). Methods We retrospectively compared demographic and perioperative data as well as postoperative and economic outcomes of robotic (n=10) and laparoscopic (n=29) LLS performed between Jan. 2015 and Mar. 2016. The sex, age, diagnosis, tumor size, operation time, postoperative length of stay, total cost and cost of operated were collected both of the two groups. Results Demographic and tumor characteristics of robotic and laparoscopic LLS were similar. The blood transfusion, conversion to open and postoperative complications did not happen between both groups. The postoperative length of hospital stay of the robotic and laparoscopic group were respectively (4.9 ±1.4 )d and (4.4 ±1.4)d (P=0.502). There wasalso no significantdifference in the drug expense of the two groups. However, the operative time of the robotic and laparoscopic group were respectively( 124.2 ± 22.7) min and( 76.4 ± 22.0)min(P=0.010). Additionally, the total costs of the robotic group was (7.61 ± 0.86) ten thousand RMB, which was more expensive than the laparoscopic group (4.86 ± 0.98)ten thousand RMB(P=0.001). Moreover, the costs of the operation of the robotic and laparoscopic group were respectively( 3.32 ± 0.29) ten thousand RMB and (1.57 ± 0.16) ten thousand RMB(P=0.001). Conclusions Although robotic LLS was comparable to laparoscopic LLS in surgical outcomes, robotic LLS was more expensive and time intensive. Thus, the laparoscopic LLS may be a good option for left lateral segment liver resection. Key words: Robotic surgery; Laparoscopic surgery; Left lateral segment liver resection