Da Vinci SP® and MARS™ robotic surgery are transforming the field of robotic-assisted procedures. Since the introduction of the Da Vinci robotic platform in 2000, advancements like the single-port (SP®) system and the magnetic-assisted robotic surgery (MARS™) platform from Levita have enhanced surgical precision. This research article explores the feasibility and applications of using the MARS™ during a transperitoneal robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) with the Da Vinci SP® system, marking a significant step in the evolution of robotic surgeries.

The Da Vinci SP® system is notable for its single trocar design, which houses a fully articulating camera and three multi-jointed robotic arms. This configuration offers advantages for single incision surgeries, particularly in confined anatomical spaces. Meanwhile, Levita’s MARS™ technology utilizes a detachable magnetic grasper manipulated externally via a specialized robotic arm, allowing for effective retraction during surgical procedures without additional port sites. The system aims to minimize the invasiveness of surgeries and enhance patient recovery outcomes.

In the study, the authors detail their experience conducting dual robotic surgery where the MARS™ was employed during a standard RARP procedure. The surgical setup involved placing the Da Vinci metal trocar above the umbilicus and an assistant trocar to facilitate the operation. The MARS™ was utilized for retraction during critical moments of the surgery, demonstrating its capability to provide adequate exposure without requiring an additional assistant trocar. This innovative approach was executed successfully in two cases, with total operative times recorded between 3 hours and 36 minutes to 3 hours and 41 minutes.

The results indicated that the MARS™ was particularly effective for retraction in the pelvis, allowing for flexibility in adjusting its position without interfering with the Da Vinci SP® setup. Importantly, no technical issues or complications arose from the use of the MARS™, underscoring its safety and operational efficiency in this context.

Discussion points within the article emphasize that robotic surgery has become integral to urological procedures, yielding positive oncological and functional outcomes. The ongoing development of technologies such as MARS™ presents exciting opportunities for enhancing surgical techniques and outcomes, particularly within the realm of single-port surgeries.

Despite its advantages, the MARS™ system does have limitations, including the cost associated with its single-use components and challenges in application during multiport robotic surgeries. The authors also noted the need for careful consideration regarding patient factors such as body habitus and the presence of implants when utilizing magnetic systems.

In conclusion, the utilisation of magnetic-assisted robotic surgery represents a promising adjunct to the Da Vinci SP® system, facilitating effective retraction without necessitating additional port sites. This innovative approach could significantly influence future surgical practices, particularly in urology, by promoting less invasive procedures and improving patient recovery times.

READ MORE… https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11701-025-02231-6

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