Robotic-Assisted Retroperitoneal Necrosectomy and Debridement (RAND): Improving Surgical Outcomes in Necrotizing Pancreatitis Using Innovative Approaches

The care of patients with necrotizing pancreatitis is a complex problem for the general, acute care, minimally invasive, and hepatopancreatobiliary surgeon. In this brief report, we present a case series of 2 patients with fulminant retroperitoneal necrosis recently treated at our center using a novel robotic-assisted retroperitoneal necrosectomy and debridement (RAND) following failure of the step-up approach. This approach maximizes access to the retroperitoneum and allows improved visualization and dexterity in the challenging retroperitoneal space while maintaining minimally invasive surgical principles. Using the robotic platform permits instrument maneuvering, reduces instrument exchanges, and facilitates definitive debridement without the need for repeated surgical interventions.