Current status and perception of robotic colorectal surgery in Chile: a multicenter descriptive study
Victor Pino P.- Alejandro Barrera E.
- Jean M. Butte B.
- Gonzalo Campaña V.
- Andrés Larach K.
- José Tomás Larach K.
- Misael Ocares U.
- Antonella Sanguineti M.
- Diego Zamorano V.
- Francisco López-Kostner
Published 2026-10-30
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Copyright (c) 2026 Revista de Cirugia
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Abstract
Objective: To characterize the status of robotic colorectal surgery in Chile through a multicenter descriptive study.
Methods: Observational, descriptive, multicenter study. The universe comprised all centers in Chile with an active robotic platform at the end of 2025 that had performed at least one robotic colorectal procedure (n=9; 100% response rate). Information was collected through a structured 48-item institutional survey. Analysis was exclusively descriptive.
Results: Nine centers participated, predominantly in the Metropolitan Region (89%) and mostly private institutions (67%). The most frequently used platform was da Vinci X (78%). The estimated total annual volume was approximately 294 procedures (a self-reported figure), with a median of 30 per center (range 7–70). Most centers (78%) reported conversion rates below 5%. As perceived by respondents, overall morbidity was below 5% and mortality below 1% across all centers. All respondents considered robotic surgery advantageous and agreed on the need for formal structured training.
Discussion: Adoption has been progressive and heterogeneous, concentrated in high-complexity centers. Perceived perioperative outcomes are consistent with international series. Main barriers remain costs, platform access, and specialized training.
Conclusion: Robotic colorectal surgery in Chile is in an active development phase. This first national characterization provides a solid basis to guide future training, registry, and consolidation strategies.