Challenge in optimizing robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy including nerve plexus hanging maneuver: a Japanese single center experience of 76 cases

Background Robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy (RPD) is technically demanding, and 20–50 cases are required to surpass the learning curve. This study aimed to show our experience of 76 cases from the introduction of RPD and report the changes in surgical results owing to the accumulation of cases and optimization of surgical techniques. Methods A total of 76 patients who underwent RPD between November 2009 and May 2023 at the Fujita Health University Hospital were divided into three groups: competency ( n = 23, Nov 2009–Mar 2020), proficiency ( n = 31, Apr 2020–Jun 2022), and mastery ( n = 22, Jul 2022–May 2023) phases. In the mastery phase, for the education of new surgeons and maintenance of surgical quality, optimization of the procedure, including hanging maneuver with or without stapling transection of the retropancreatic tissue was implemented. The surgical outcomes were compared between the groups. Results The mean operation time decreased over time despite of the participation of newly started operators in mastery phase [competency: 921.5 min (IQR 775–996 min) vs. proficiency: 802.8 min (IQR 715–887 min) vs. mastery: 609.2 min (IQR 514–699 min), p < 0.001]. Additionally, Clavien–Dindo ≥ grade IIIa complications decreased from 52.2% in competency phase to 35.5% and 9.1% in proficiency and mastery phases, respectively ( p = 0.005). Conclusion Operation time and major complications decreased along the learning curve from the introduction of RPD. In addition, optimization of the procedure, including hanging maneuver of the retropancreatic tissue seemed to be effective in reducing operation time and educating new RPD surgeons.