A pilot study to assess the feasibility, safety and cost of robotic assisted total hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety, feasibility and cost-effectiveness of robotic assisted total hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (RATHBSO). Sixteen women underwent this new procedure for a variety of gynaecological indications. Outcome measures included operating time, estimated blood loss, length of hospital stay and cost. No intra-operative complications were recorded. Fifteen patients were discharged on day 1 following the procedure, and one patient stayed an extra day for pain relief. The cost of the procedure compared favourably with other surgical hysterectomy techniques. We conclude that RATHBSO is a feasible and safe surgical technique with all the advantages of minimal access surgery and equivalent cost.