References 1:

High Level of Evidence (LOE) Robotic General Surgery Publications Missing from TAVAC Bibliography

Grouped by Procedure and LOE (1,2,3)

Cholecystectomy (5)

2a (1)Kamiński, J. P., et al. (2014) Robotic Versus Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Inpatient

Analysis: Does the End Justify the Means? Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery.

2b (1)Heemskerk, J., et al. (2014) Relax, It's Just Laparoscopy! A Prospective Randomized Trial on

Heart Rate Variability of the Surgeon in Robot-Assisted versus Conventional Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy. Digestive Surgery 31:225-232

3b (3)Ayloo, S., et al. (2014) Laparoscopic versus robot-assisted cholecystectomy: A retrospective

cohort study. International Journal of Surgery 12:1077-1081Breitenstein, S., et al. (2008) Robotic-assisted versus laparoscopic cholecystectomy: outcome

and cost analyses of a case-matched control study. Annals of Surgery. 247:987-993Ruurda, J. P. V., P. L.; Broeders, I. A. (2003) Analysis of procedure time in robot-assisted

surgery: comparative study in laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Computer Aided Surgery. 8:24-29

Colorectal (97)

1a (1)Liao, G., et al. (2014) Robotic-assisted versus laparoscopic colorectal surgery: a meta-

analysis of four randomized controlled trials. World Journal of Surgical Oncology. 12:122

1b (3)Jimenez Rodriguez, R. M. D. P., J. M.; de La Portilla de Juan, F.; Prendes Sillero, E.; Hisnard

Cadet Dussort, J. M.; Padillo, J. (2011) Prospective randomised study: robotic-assisted versus conventional laparoscopic surgery in colorectal cancer resection. Cir Esp.

Park, J. S. C., G. S.; Park, S. Y.; Kim, H. J.; Ryuk, J. P. (2012) Randomized clinical trial of robot-assisted versus standard laparoscopic right colectomy. British Journal of Surgery. 99:1219-1226

Somashekhar, S. P., et al. (2013) Prospective Randomized Study Comparing Robotic-Assisted Surgery with Traditional Laparotomy for Rectal Cancer-Indian Study. Indian Journal of Surgery.

2a (13)Broholm, M., et al. (2014) Possible benefits of robot-assisted rectal cancer surgery regarding

urological and sexual dysfunction: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Colorectal Disease.

Chang, Y. S., et al. (2015) A meta-analysis of robotic versus laparoscopic colectomy. Journal of Surgical Research.

Halabi, W. J. K., C. Y.; Jafari, M. D.; Nguyen, V. Q.; Carmichael, J. C.; Mills, S.; Stamos, M. J.; Pigazzi, A. (2013) Robotic-assisted Colorectal Surgery in the United States: A Nationwide Analysis of Trends and Outcomes. World Journal of Surgery.

Juo, Y. Y., et al. (2013) Is Minimally Invasive Colon Resection Better Than Traditional Approaches?: First Comprehensive National Examination With Propensity Score Matching. JAMA Surg.

Keller, D. S., et al. (2013) Short-Term Outcomes for Robotic Colorectal Surgery by Provider Volume. Journal of the American College of Surgeons.

Keller, D. S., et al. (2014) Comparative effectiveness of laparoscopic versus robot-assisted colorectal resection. Surgical Endoscopy. 28:212-221

Petrucciani, N., et al. (2014) Robotic right colectomy: A worthwhile procedure? Results of a meta-analysis of trials comparing robotic versus laparoscopic right colectomy. Journal of Minimal Access Surgery. 11:22-28

Scarpinata, R. A., E. H. (2013) Does robotic rectal cancer surgery offer improved early postoperative outcomes? Diseases of the Colon and Rectum. 56:253-262

Speicher, P. J., et al. (2014) Robotic Low Anterior Resection for Rectal Cancer: A National Perspective on Short-term Oncologic Outcomes. Annals of Surgery.

Wang, M., et al. (2014) [A meta-analysis on the outcomes and potential benefits of hybrid robotic technique in rectal cancer surgery]. Zhonghua Wei Chang Wai Ke Za Zhi. 17:785-790

Xiong, B., et al. (2014) Robotic Versus Laparoscopic Total Mesorectal Excision for Rectal Cancer: a Meta-analysis of Eight Studies. Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery.

Xu, H., et al. (2014) Robotic versus laparoscopic right colectomy: a meta-analysis. World Journal of Surgical Oncology. 12:274

Yang, Y. W., F.; Zhang, P.; Shi, C.; Zou, Y.; Qin, H.; Ma, Y. (2012) Robot-Assisted Versus Conventional Laparoscopic Surgery for Colorectal Disease, Focusing on Rectal Cancer: A Meta-analysis. Annals of Surgical Oncology. 19:3727-3736

2b (11)Baek, J. H. P., C.; Pigazzi, A. (2010) Robotic and laparoscopic total mesorectal excision for

rectal cancer: a case-matched study. Surgical Endoscopy.Baik, S. H. K., Y. T.; Kang, C. M.; Lee, W. J.; Kim, N. K.; Sohn, S. K.; Chi, H. S.; Cho, C.

H. (2008) Robotic tumor-specific mesorectal excison of rectal cancer: Short-term outcome of a pilot randomized trial. Surgical Endoscopy. 22:1601-1608

Baik, S. H. K., H. Y.; Kim, J. S.; Hur, H.; Sohn, S. K.; Cho, C. H.; Kim, H. (2009) Robotic Versus Laparoscopic Low Anterior Resection of Rectal Cancer: Short-Term Outcome of a Prospective Comparative Study. Annals of Surgical Oncology. 16:1480-1487

Kim, H. J. C., G. S.; Park, J. S.; Park, S. Y. (2012) Comparison of intracorporeal single-stapled and double-stapled anastomosis in laparoscopic low anterior resection for rectal cancer: a case-control study. International Journal of Colorectal Disease. 28:149-156

Kim, J. C., et al. (2014) A comparison of the technical and oncologic validity between robot-assisted and conventional open abdominoperineal resection. International Journal of Colorectal Disease.

Kim, J. C. Y., S. S.; Jang, T. Y.; Kwak, J. Y.; Yun, M. J.; Lim, S. B. (2012) Open versus robot-assisted sphincter-saving operations in rectal cancer patients: techniques and comparison of outcomes between groups of 100 matched patients. International of Medical Robots and Computer Assisted Surgery.

Kim, J. Y. K., N. K.; Lee, K. Y.; Hur, H.; Min, B. S.; Kim, J. H. (2012) A Comparative Study of Voiding and Sexual Function after Total Mesorectal Excision with Autonomic Nerve Preservation for Rectal Cancer: Laparoscopic Versus Robotic Surgery. Annals of Surgical Oncology. 19:2485-2493

Patel, C. B. R., M.; Ramos-Valadez, D. I.; Haas, E. M. (2011) A three-arm (laparoscopic, hand-assisted, and robotic) matched-case analysis of intraoperative and postoperative outcomes in minimally invasive colorectal surgery. Diseases of the Colon and Rectum. 54:144-150

Patriti, A. (2009) Short- and medium-term outcome of robot-assisted and traditional laparoscopic rectal resection. JSLS : Journal of the Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons / Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons. 13:176-183

Shibata, J., et al. (2015) Surgical stress response after colorectal resection: a comparison of robotic, laparoscopic, and open surgery. Tech Coloproctol.

Wong, M. T. M., G.; Rigaud, J.; Regenet, N.; Lehur, P. A. (2011) Robotic versus laparoscopic rectopexy for complex rectocele: a prospective comparison of short-term outcomes. Diseases of the Colon and Rectum. 54:342-346

3a (15)Alasari, S. M., B. S. (2012) Robotic colorectal surgery: a systematic review. ISRN Surg.

2012:293894Araujo, S. E., et al. (2014) Robotic surgery for rectal cancer: Current immediate clinical and

oncological outcomes. World Journal of Gastroenterology. 20:14359-14370Barrie, J., et al. (2013) Attaining Surgical Competency and Its Implications in Surgical

Clinical Trial Design: A Systematic Review of the Learning Curve in Laparoscopic and Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Colorectal Cancer Surgery. Annals of Surgical Oncology. 21:829-840

Gonzalez Fernandez, A. M. M. G., J. F. (2012) [Total laparoscopic mesorectal excision versus robot-assisted in the treatment of rectal cancer: a meta-analysis]. Cir Esp. 90:348-354

Jin, K., et al. (2014) Laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer in China: An overview. International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Medicine. 7:4635-4645

Kanji, A. G., R. S.; Shi, X.; Birch, D. W.; Karmali, S. (2011) Robotic-assisted colon and rectal surgery: a systematic review. International of Medical Robots and Computer Assisted Surgery. 7:401-407

Kim, C. W., et al. (2014) Outcomes of Robotic-Assisted Colorectal Surgery Compared with Laparoscopic and Open Surgery: a Systematic Review. Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery.

Lin, S. J., H. G.; Chen, Z. H.; Zhou, S. Y.; Liu, X. S.; Yu, J. R. (2011) Meta-analysis of robotic and laparoscopic surgery for treatment of rectal cancer. World Journal of Gastroenterology. 17:5214-5220

Mak, T. W., et al. (2014) Robotic surgery for rectal cancer: A systematic review of current practice. World J Gastrointest Oncol. 6:184-193

Memon, S. H., A. G.; Murphy, D. G.; Bressel, M.; Lynch, A. C. (2012) Robotic versus Laparoscopic Proctectomy for Rectal Cancer: A Meta-analysis. Annals of Surgical Oncology.

Mirnezami, A. H. M., R.; Venkatasubramaniam, A. K.; Chandrakumaran, K.; Cecil, T. D.; Moran, B. J. (2010) Robotic colorectal surgery: hype or new hope? A systematic review of robotics in colorectal surgery. Colorectal disease : the official journal of the Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland. 12:1084-1093

Ortiz-Oshiro, E. S.-E., I.; Moreno-Sierra, J.; Perez, C. F.; Diaz, J. S.; Fernandez-Represa, J. A. (2012) Robotic assistance may reduce conversion to open in rectal carcinoma laparoscopic surgery: systematic review and meta-analysis. International of Medical Robots and Computer Assisted Surgery.

Papanikolaou, I. G. (2014) Robotic Surgery for Colorectal Cancer: Systematic Review of the Literature. Surgical Laparoscopy, Endoscopy and Percutaneous Techniques.

Rondelli, F., et al. (2014) Robot-assisted or conventional laparoscoic rectopexy for rectal prolapse? Systematic review and meta-analysis. International Journal of Surgery.

Trastulli, S. F., E.; Cirocchi, R.; Cavaliere, D.; Avenia, N.; Sciannameo, F.; Gullà, N.; Noya, G.; Boselli, C. (2012) Robotic resection compared with laparoscopic rectal resection for cancer: Systematic review and meta-analysis of short-term outcome. Colorectal Disease. 14:e134-e156

3b (54)Baek, S. J., et al. (2013) Robotic versus laparoscopic coloanal anastomosis with or without

intersphincteric resection for rectal cancer. Surgical Endoscopy. 27:4157-4163Baek, S. J. K., S. H.; Cho, J. S.; Shin, J. W.; Kim, J. (2012) Robotic versus Conventional

Laparoscopic Surgery for Rectal Cancer: A Cost Analysis from A Single Institute in Korea. World Journal of Surgery. 36:2722-2729

Bertani, E., et al. (2014) The impact of pelvimetry on anastomotic leakage in a consecutive series of open, laparoscopic and robotic low anterior resections with total mesorectal excision for rectal cancer. Hepato-Gastroenterology. 61:1574-1581

Bertani, E. C., A.; Biffi, R.; Bianchi, P. P.; Radice, D.; Branchi, V.; Cenderelli, E.; Vetrano, I.; Cenciarelli, S.; Andreoni, B. (2011) Assessing appropriateness for elective colorectal cancer surgery: clinical, oncological, and quality-of-life short-term outcomes employing different treatment approaches. International Journal of Colorectal Disease. 26:1317-1327

Biffi, R. L., F.; Pozzi, S.; Cenciarelli, S.; Valvo, M.; Sonzogni, A.; Radice, D.; Ghezzi, T. L. (2011) Operative blood loss and use of blood products after full robotic and conventional low anterior resection with total mesorectal excision for treatment of rectal cancer. Journal of Robotic Surgery. 5:101-107

Casillas Jr, M. A., et al. (2013) Improved perioperative and short-term outcomes of robotic versus conventional laparoscopic colorectal operations. American Journal of Surgery.

Clark, J. S., K.; Sodergren, M. H.; James, D. R. C.; Purkayastha, S.; Athanasiou, T.; Yang, G. Z.; Darzi, A. (2011) Robotic-assisted total mesorectal excision: should it be considered as the technique of choice in the management of rectal cancer? Journal of Robotic Surgery. 6:99-114

D'Annibale, A., et al. (2013) Total mesorectal excision: A comparison of oncological and functional outcomes between robotic and laparoscopic surgery for rectal cancer. Surgical Endoscopy and Other Interventional Techniques. 27:1887-1895

Davis, B. R., et al. (2014) Robotic-assisted versus laparoscopic colectomy: cost and clinical outcomes. JSLS: Journal of the Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons. 18:211-224

Desouza, A. L. P., L. M.; Ricci, J.; Park, J. J.; Marecik, S. J.; Zimmern, A.; Blumetti, J.; Abcarian, H. (2011) A comparison of open and robotic total mesorectal excision for rectal adenocarcinoma. Diseases of the Colon and Rectum. 54:275-282

Deutsch, G. B. S., S. A.; Gunabushanam, V.; Mishra, N.; Rubach, E.; Zemon, H.; Klein, J. D. S.; DeNoto Iii, G. (2011) Robotic vs. laparoscopic colorectal surgery: an institutional experience. Surgical Endoscopy. 26:956-963

Elliott, P. A., et al. (2015) Robotic versus laparoscopic resection for sigmoid diverticulitis with fistula. Journal of Robotic Surgery.

Erguner, I., et al. (2013) What have we gained by performing robotic rectal resection? Evaluation of 64 consecutive patients who underwent laparoscopic or robotic low anterior resection for rectal adenocarcinoma. Surgical Laparoscopy, Endoscopy and Percutaneous Techniques. 23:316-319

Ghezzi, T. L., et al. (2014) Robotic versus open total mesorectal excision for rectal cancer: Comparative study of short and long-term outcomes. European Journal of Surgical Oncology.

Haas, E. M. P., R. (2013) Laparoscopic and Robotic Colorectal Surgery: A Comparison and Contrast. Seminars in Colon and Rectal Surgery. 24:19-23

Helvind, N. M. E., J. R.; Mogensen, A.; Tas, B.; Olsen, J.; Bundgaard, M.; Jakobsen, H. L.; Gögenür, I. (2013) No differences in short-term morbidity and mortality after robot-assisted laparoscopic versus laparoscopic resection for colonic cancer: a case-control study of 263 patients. Surgical Endoscopy. 27:2575-2580

Ielpo, B., et al. (2014) Robotic versus laparoscopic rectal resection: Is there any real difference? A comparative single center study. International Journal of Medical Robotics and Computer Assisted Surgery. 10:300-305

Inusah, S. D., T. D.; Albright, K. C.; McGwin, G., Jr. (2012) Robotic vs Laparoscopic Resection of Rectal Cancer: Short-term Outcomes of a Case-Control Study. Diseases of the Colon and Rectum. 55:e3

Jafari, M. D. L., K. H.; Halabi, W. J.; Mills, S. D.; Carmichael, J. C.; Stamos, M. J.; Pigazzi, A. (2013) The use of indocyanine green fluorescence to assess anastomotic perfusion during robotic assisted laparoscopic rectal surgery. Surgical Endoscopy. 27:3003-3008

Kang, J. M., B. S.; Hur, H.; Kim, N. K.; Lee, K. Y. (2011) Transanal specimen extraction in robotic rectal cancer surgery. British Journal of Surgery.

Kang, J. Y., K. J.; Min, B. S.; Hur, H.; Baik, S. H.; Kim, N. K.; Lee, K. Y. (2012) The impact of robotic surgery for mid and low rectal cancer: A case-matched analysis of 3-arm comparison--open, laparoscopic, and robotic surgery. Annals of Surgery.

Kim, D. H., et al. (2015) Factors affecting the selection of minimally invasive surgery for stage 0/I colorectal cancer. International Journal of Surgery. 16:44-48

Kim, I. K., et al. (2014) Is prior laparoscopy experience required for adaptation to robotic rectal surgery?: feasibility of one-step transition from open to robotic surgery. International Journal of Colorectal Disease.

Kim, J. C., et al. (2014) Completely abdominal intersphincteric resection for lower rectal cancer: feasibility and comparison of robot-assisted and open surgery. Surgical Endoscopy.

Koh, F. H., et al. (2014) Endowrist Versus Wrist: A Case-Controlled Study Comparing Robotic Versus Hand-assisted Laparoscopic Surgery for Rectal Cancer. Surgical Laparoscopy, Endoscopy and Percutaneous Techniques. 24:452-456

Kuo, L. J., et al. (2014) Clinical outcomes of robot-assisted intersphincteric resection for low rectal cancer: comparison with conventional laparoscopy and multifactorial analysis of the learning curve for robotic surgery. International Journal of Colorectal Disease.

Kwak, J. M. K., S. H.; Kim, J.; Son, D. N.; Baek, S. J.; Cho, J. S. (2011) Robotic vs laparoscopic resection of rectal cancer: Short-term outcomes of a case-control study. Diseases of the Colon and Rectum. 54:151-156

Levic, K., et al. (2014) A Comparative Study of Single-Port Laparoscopic Surgery Versus Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Surgery for Rectal Cancer. Surgical Innovation.

Lim, D. R. M., B. S.; Kim, M. S.; Alasari, S.; Kim, G.; Hur, H.; Baik, S. H.; Lee, K. Y.; Kim, N. K. (2012) Robotic versus laparoscopic anterior resection of sigmoid colon cancer: comparative study of long-term oncologic outcomes. Surgical Endoscopy. 27:1-7

Lujan, H. J. M., V. H.; Romero, R.; Plasencia, G. (2011) Laparoscopic versus robotic right colectomy: a single surgeon's experience. Journal of Robotic Surgery. 7:95-102

Maciel, V., et al. (2014) Diverticular disease complicated with colovesical fistula: laparoscopic versus robotic management. International Surgery. 99:203-210

Makela-Kaikkonen, J., et al. (2014) Robotic-assisted and laparoscopic ventral rectopexy in the treatment of rectal prolapse: a matched-pairs study of operative details and complications. Tech Coloproctol. 18:151-155

Mantoo, S., et al. (2013) Is robotic-assisted ventral mesh rectopexy superior to laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy in the management of obstructed defaecation? Colorectal Disease.

Mehmood, R. K., et al. (2014) Short-term outcome of laparoscopic versus robotic ventral mesh rectopexy for full-thickness rectal prolapse. Is robotic superior? International Journal of Colorectal Disease.

Melich, G., et al. (2014) Simultaneous development of laparoscopy and robotics provides acceptable perioperative outcomes and shows robotics to have a faster learning curve and to be overall faster in rectal cancer surgery: analysis of novice MIS surgeon learning curves. Surgical Endoscopy.

Miller, A. T. B., J. R.; Rubin, M.; Hurst, R. D.; Fichera, A.; Umanskiy, K. (2011) Robotic-Assisted Proctectomy for Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Case-Matched Comparison of Laparoscopic and Robotic Technique. Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery. 16:597-594

Morpurgo, E., et al. (2013) Robotic-assisted intracorporeal anastomosis versus extracorporeal anastomosis in laparoscopic right hemicolectomy for cancer: a case control study. Journal of Laparoendoscopic and Advanced Surgical Techniques. Part A. 23:414-417

Park, E. J., et al. (2014) Long-term Oncologic Outcomes of Robotic Low Anterior Resection for Rectal Cancer: A Comparative Study With Laparoscopic Surgery. Annals of Surgery.

Park, E. J., et al. (2014) Is the Learning Curve of Robotic Low Anterior Resection Shorter Than Laparoscopic Low Anterior Resection for Rectal Cancer?: A Comparative Analysis of Clinicopathologic Outcomes Between Robotic and Laparoscopic Surgeries. Medicine. 93:e109

Park, J. S. C., G. S.; Lim, K. H.; Jang, Y. S.; Jun, S. H. (2010) Robotic-Assisted versus Laparoscopic Surgery for Low Rectal Cancer: Case-Matched Analysis of Short-Term Outcomes. Annals of Surgical Oncology.

Park, J. S. C., G. S.; Lim, K. H.; Jang, Y. S.; Jun, S. H. (2010) S052: a comparison of robot-assisted, laparoscopic, and open surgery in the treatment of rectal cancer. Surgical Endoscopy. 25:240-248

Park, S. Y., et al. (2013) Urinary and Erectile Function in Men After Total Mesorectal Excision by Laparoscopic or Robot-Assisted Methods for the Treatment of Rectal Cancer: A Case-Matched Comparison. World Journal of Surgery.

Park, S. Y. C., G. S.; Park, J. S.; Kim, H. J.; Ryuk, J. P. (2012) Short-term clinical outcome of robot-assisted intersphincteric resection for low rectal cancer: a retrospective comparison with conventional laparoscopy. Surgical Endoscopy. 27:48-55

Popescu, I. V., C.; Tomulescu, V.; Vasile, S.; Sgarbura, O. (2010) The minimally invasive approach, laparoscopic and robotic, in rectal resection for cancer. A single center experience. Acta Chirurgica Iugoslavica. 57:29-35

Saklani, A. P., et al. (2013) Robotic versus laparoscopic surgery for mid-low rectal cancer after neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy: comparison of oncologic outcomes. International Journal of Colorectal Disease.

Shin, J. W. K., S. H. (2012) Robotic versus laparoscopic surgery in colon and rectal cancer. Journal of the Korean Medical Association. 55:620-628

Shin, J. Y. (2012) Comparison of Short-term Surgical Outcomes between a Robotic Colectomy and a Laparoscopic Colectomy during Early Experience. J Korean Soc Coloproctol. 28:19-26

Szeto, G. P. Y., et al. (2013) A comparison of surgeon's postural muscle activity during robotic-assisted and laparoscopic rectal surgery. Journal of Robotic Surgery. 7:305-308

Tam, M. S., et al. (2014) Robotic-laparoscopic rectal cancer excision versus traditional laparoscopy. JSLS: Journal of the Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons. 18

Trastulli, S., et al. (2014) Robotic right colectomy with intracorporeal anastomosis compared with laparoscopic right colectomy with extracorporeal and intracorporeal anastomosis: a retrospective multicentre study. Surgical Endoscopy.

Trinh, B. B., et al. (2014) Robot-assisted versus standard laparoscopic colorectal surgery. JSLS: Journal of the Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons. 18

Tyler, J. A. F., J. P.; Desai, M. M.; Perry, W. B.; Glasgow, S. C. (2013) Outcomes and costs associated with robotic colectomy in the minimally invasive era. Diseases of the Colon and Rectum. 56:458-466

Yoo, B. E., et al. (2014) Robotic Versus Laparoscopic Intersphincteric Resection for Low Rectal Cancer: Comparison of the Operative, Oncological, and Functional Outcomes. Annals of Surgical Oncology.

Young, M. T., et al. (2014) Laparoscopic versus Robotic-assisted Rectal Surgery: A Comparison of Postoperative Outcomes. American Surgeon. 80:1059-1063

Gastrectomy (38)

2a (9)Chuan, L., et al. (2014) Meta-analysis of the short-term outcomes of robotic-assisted

compared to laparoscopic gastrectomy. Minim Invasive Ther Allied Technol. 24:127-134

Glenn, J. A., et al. (2015) Minimally invasive gastrectomy for cancer: current utilization in US academic medical centers. Surgical Endoscopy.

Hyun, M. H., et al. (2013) Systematic review and meta-analysis of robotic surgery compared with conventional laparoscopic and open resections for gastric carcinoma. British Journal of Surgery. 100:1566-1578

Liao, G., et al. (2013) Robotic versus open gastrectomy for gastric cancer: a meta-analysis. PLoS ONE. 8:e81946

Liao, G. X., et al. (2013) Meta-analysis of Outcomes Compared between Robotic and Laparoscopic Gastrectomy for Gastric Cancer. Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention. 14:4871-4875

Marano, A., et al. (2013) Robotic versus Laparoscopic versus Open Gastrectomy: A Meta-Analysis. J Gastric Cancer. 13:136-148

Shen, W. S., et al. (2014) A meta-analysis of robotic versus laparoscopic gastrectomy for gastric cancer. Surgical Endoscopy.

Xiong, B. M., L.; Zhang, C. (2012) Robotic versus laparoscopic gastrectomy for gastric cancer: A meta-analysis of short outcomes. Surgical Oncology.

Xiong, J., et al. (2013) Comparison of Short-Term Clinical Outcomes Between Robotic and Laparoscopic Gastrectomy for Gastric Cancer: A Meta-analysis of 2495 Patients. Journal of Laparoendoscopic and Advanced Surgical Techniques. Part A.

3b (29)Caruso, S. P., A.; Marrelli, D.; Ceccarelli, G.; Ceribelli, C.; Roviello, F.; Casciola, L. (2011)

Open vs robot-assisted laparoscopic gastric resection with D2 lymph node dissection for adenocarcinoma: a case-control study. International of Medical Robots and Computer Assisted Surgery.

Eom, B. W. Y., H. M.; Ryu, K. W.; Lee, J. H.; Cho, S. J.; Lee, J. Y.; Kim, C. G.; Choi, I. J.; Lee, J. S.; Kook, M. C.; Rhee, J. Y.; Park, S. R.; Kim, Y. W. (2011) Comparison of surgical performance and short-term clinical outcomes between laparoscopic and robotic surgery in distal gastric cancer. European Journal of Surgical Oncology. 38:57-63

Han, D. S., et al. (2014) Comparison of Surgical Outcomes of Robot-Assisted and Laparoscopy-Assisted Pylorus-Preserving Gastrectomy for Gastric Cancer: A Propensity Score Matching Analysis. Annals of Surgical Oncology.

Huang, K. H., et al. (2014) Comparison of the Operative Outcomes and Learning Curves between Laparoscopic and Robotic Gastrectomy for Gastric Cancer. PLoS ONE. 9:e111499

Huang, K. H. L., Y. T.; Fang, W. L.; Chen, J. H.; Lo, S. S.; Hsieh, M. C.; Li, A. F.; Chiou, S. H.; Wu, C. W. (2012) Initial Experience of Robotic Gastrectomy and Comparison with Open and Laparoscopic Gastrectomy for Gastric Cancer. Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery.

Hyun, M. H., et al. (2013) Robot versus laparoscopic gastrectomy for cancer by an experienced surgeon: comparisons of surgery, complications, and surgical stress. Annals of Surgical Oncology. 20:1258-1265

Junfeng, Z., et al. (2014) Robotic gastrectomy versus laparoscopic gastrectomy for gastric cancer: comparison of surgical performance and short-term outcomes. Surgical Endoscopy.

Kang, B. H. X., Y.; Hur, H.; Ahn, C. W.; Cho, Y. K.; Han, S. U. (2012) Comparison of surgical outcomes between robotic and laparoscopic gastrectomy for gastric cancer: The learning curve of robotic surgery. Journal of Gastric Cancer. 12:156-163

Kim, H. I. (2014) Rapid and safe learning of robotic gastrectomy for gastric cancer: multidimensional analysis in a comparison with laparoscopic gastrectomy. European journal of surgical oncology : the journal of the European Society of Surgical Oncology and the British Association of Surgical Oncology. 40:1346-1354

Kim, H. I., et al. (2013) Rapid and safe learning of robotic gastrectomy for gastric cancer: Multidimensional analysis in a comparison with laparoscopic gastrectomy. European Journal of Surgical Oncology.

Kim, K. M. A., J. Y.; Kim, H. I.; Cheong, J. H.; Hyung, W. J.; Noh, S. H. (2012) Major early complications following open, laparoscopic and robotic gastrectomy. British Journal of Surgery.

Lee, J., et al. (2015) Robotic distal subtotal gastrectomy with D2 lymphadenectomy for gastric cancer patients with high body mass index: comparison with conventional laparoscopic distal subtotal gastrectomy with D2 lymphadenectomy. Surgical Endoscopy.

Liu, J., et al. (2014) [Comparative study on da Vince robotic and laparoscopic radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer]. Zhonghua Wei Chang Wai Ke Za Zhi. 17:461-464

Noshiro, H., et al. (2014) Robotically-enhanced surgical anatomy enables surgeons to perform distal gastrectomy for gastric cancer using electric cautery devices alone. Surgical Endoscopy. 28:1180-1187

Park, J. Y., et al. (2012) Surgical stress after robot-assisted distal gastrectomy and its economic implications. British Journal of Surgery. 99:1554-1561

Park, J. Y., et al. (2015) Robot-Assisted Gastrectomy for Early Gastric Cancer: Is It Beneficial in Viscerally Obese Patients Compared to Laparoscopic Gastrectomy? World Journal of Surgery.

Pugliese, R. M., D.; Sansonna, F.; Ferrari, G. C.; Forgione, A.; Costanzi, A.; Magistro, C.; Pauna, J.; Di Lernia, S.; Citterio, D.; Brambilla, C. (2009) Outcomes and survival after laparoscopic gastrectomy for adenocarcinoma. Analysis on 65 patients operated on by conventional or robot-assisted minimal access procedures. European Journal of Surgical Oncology. 35:281-288

Romero, R. J., et al. (2013) Robotic Sleeve Gastrectomy: Experience of 134 Cases and Comparison with a Systematic Review of the Laparoscopic Approach. Obesity Surgery.

Son, T., et al. (2014) Robotic spleen-preserving total gastrectomy for gastric cancer: Comparison with conventional laparoscopic procedure. Surgical Endoscopy and Other Interventional Techniques. 28:2606-2615

Son, T. H., W. J. (2012) Robotic surgery for gastric cancer. Journal of the Korean Medical Association. 55:613-619

Song, J. K., W. H.; Oh, S. J.; Hyung, W. J.; Choi, S. H.; Noh, S. H. (2009) Role of robotic gastrectomy using da Vinci system compared with laparoscopic gastrectomy: initial experience of 20 consecutive cases. Surgical Endoscopy. 23:1204-1211

Suda, K., et al. (2014) Potential advantages of robotic radical gastrectomy for gastric adenocarcinoma in comparison with conventional laparoscopic approach: a single institutional retrospective comparative cohort study. Surgical Endoscopy.

Urrego, H., et al. (2014) Out by 3:30 - A study in robotic bariatric surgery efficiency. Bariatric Surgical Practice and Patient Care. 9:55-60

Uyama, I. K., S.; Ishida, Y.; Inaba, K.; Suda, K.; Satoh, S. (2011) Novel Integrated Robotic Approach for Suprapancreatic D2 Nodal Dissection for Treating Gastric Cancer: Technique and Initial Experience. World Journal of Surgery. 36:331-337

Vilallonga, R., et al. (2013) Robotic Sleeve Gastrectomy Versus Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: a Comparative Study with 200 Patients. Obesity Surgery.

Woo, Y. H., W. J.; Pak, K. H.; Inaba, K.; Obama, K.; Choi, S. H.; Noh, S. H. (2011) Robotic Gastrectomy as an Oncologically Sound Alternative to Laparoscopic Resections for the Treatment of Early-Stage Gastric Cancers. Archives of Surgery. 146:1086-1092

Yoon, H. M. K., Y. W.; Lee, J. H.; Ryu, K. W.; Eom, B. W.; Park, J. Y.; Choi, I. J.; Kim, C. G.; Lee, J. Y.; Cho, S. J.; Rho, J. Y. (2011) Robot-assisted total gastrectomy is comparable with laparoscopically assisted total gastrectomy for early gastric cancer. Surgical Endoscopy.

Zhang, X. L., et al. (2012) [Comparative study on clinical efficacy of robot-assisted and laparoscopic gastrectomy for gastric cancer]. Zhonghua Wei Chang Wai Ke Za Zhi. 15:804-806

Zhou, J., et al. (2014) Robotic gastrectomy versus laparoscopic gastrectomy for gastric cancer: Comparison of surgical performance and short-term outcomes. Surgical Endoscopy and Other Interventional Techniques. 28:1779-1787

Gastric Bypass (15)

2a (4)Maeso, S., et al. (2010) Efficacy of the da vinci surgical system in abdominal surgery

compared with that of laparoscopy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Annals of Surgery. 252:254-262

Markar, S. R. K., A. P.; Venkat-Ramen, V.; Kinross, J.; Ziprin, P. (2011) Robotic vs. laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass in morbidly obese patients: systematic review and pooled analysis. International of Medical Robots and Computer Assisted Surgery. 7:393-400

Salman, M. B., T.; Martin, J.; Bhuva, K.; Grim, R.; Ahuja, V. (2013) Use, Cost, Complications, and Mortality of Robotic versus Nonrobotic General Surgery Procedures Based on a Nationwide Database. American Surgeon. 79:553-560

Wormer, B. A., et al. (2013) The first nationwide evaluation of robotic general surgery: a regionalized, small but safe start. Surgical Endoscopy. 28:767-776

2b (1)Scozzari, G., et al. (2014) High incidence of trocar site hernia after laparoscopic or robotic

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Surgical Endoscopy.

3a (2)Bindal, V., et al. (2014) Review of contemporary role of robotics in bariatric surgery. Journal

of Minimal Access Surgery. 11:16-21Cirocchi, R., et al. (2013) Current status of robotic bariatric surgery: a systematic review.

BMC Surgery. 13:53

3b (8)Ali, M. R. R., J. J. (2008) Switching robotic surgical systems does not impact surgical

performance. Journal of Laparoendoscopic and Advanced Surgical Techniques. Part A. 18:32-36

Buchs, N. C., et al. (2014) Laparoscopic Versus Robotic Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass: Lessons and Long-Term Follow-Up Learned From a Large Prospective Monocentric Study. Obesity Surgery.

Buchs, N. C., et al. (2013) Robotic revisional bariatric surgery: a comparative study with laparoscopic and open surgery. International of Medical Robots and Computer Assisted Surgery.

Buchs, N. C. P., F.; Chassot, G.; Volonte, F.; Koutny-Fong, P.; Hagen, M. E.; Morel, P. (2012) Robot-Assisted Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass for Super Obese Patients: A Comparative Study. Obesity Surgery. 23:353-357

Lawson, E., et al. (2007) Postural ergonomics during robotic and laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery: a pilot project. Journal of Robotic Surgery. 1:61-67

Snyder, B. E. W., T.; Scarborough, T.; Yu, S.; Wilson, E. B. (2008) Lowering gastrointestinal leak rates: A comparative analysis of robotic and laparoscopic gastric bypass. Journal of Robotic Surgery. 2:159-163

Villamere, J., et al. (2014) Utilization and outcome of laparoscopic versus robotic general and bariatric surgical procedures at Academic Medical Centers. Surgical Endoscopy.

Wood, M. H., et al. (2013) A comparison of outcomes between the traditional laparoscopic and totally robotic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass procedures. Journal of Robotic Surgery. 8:29-34

Heller Myotomy (6)

3a (1)Falkenback, D., et al. (2014) Robot-assisted oesophageal and gastric surgery for benign

disease: Antireflux operations and Heller's myotomy. ANZ Journal of Surgery.

3b (5)Horgan, S. G., C.; Gorodner, M. V.; Omelanczuck, P.; Elli, F.; Moser, F.; Durand, L.;

Caracoche, M.; Nefa, J.; Bustos, S.; Donahue, P.; Ferraina, P. (2005) Robotic-assisted Heller myotomy versus laparoscopic Heller myotomy for the treatment of esophageal achalasia: multicenter study. Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery. 9:1020-1029; discussion 1029-1030

Huffmanm, L. C. P., P. K.; Boulton, B. J.; James, L.; Starnes, S. L.; Reed, M. F.; Howington, J. A.; Nussbaum, M. S. (2007) Robotic Heller myotomy: A safe operation with higher postoperative quality-of-life indices. Surgery. 142:613-620

Perry, K. A., et al. (2014) Efficacy and durability of robotic heller myotomy for achalasia: patient symptoms and satisfaction at long-term follow-up. Surgical Endoscopy.

Sánchez, A. R., O.; Nakhal, E.; Davila, H.; Valero, R.; Sánchez, R.; Pena, R.; Visconti, M. F. (2011) Robotic-assisted Heller myotomy versus laparoscopic Heller myotomy for the treatment of esophageal achalasia: a case-control study. Journal of Robotic Surgery. 6:213-216

Shaligram, A. U., J.; Simorov, A.; Kothari, V. M.; Oleynikov, D. (2011) How does the robot affect outcomes? A retrospective review of open, laparoscopic, and robotic Heller myotomy for achalasia. Surgical Endoscopy. 26: 1047-1050

Hepato-Pancreato-Billiary (41)

2a (4)Chen, Y., et al. (2013) A meta-analysis of robotic-assisted pancreatectomy versus

laparoscopic and open pancreatectomy. Saudi Med J. 34:1229-1236

Ejaz, A., et al. (2014) A comparison of open and minimally invasive surgery for hepatic and pancreatic resections using the nationwide inpatient sample. Surgery.

Lei, P., et al. (2014) Minimally Invasive Surgical Approach Compared With Open Pancreaticoduodenectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis on the Feasibility and Safety. Surgical Laparoscopy, Endoscopy and Percutaneous Techniques.

Zhang, J., et al. (2013) Robotic versus open pancreatectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Annals of Surgical Oncology. 20:1774-1780

2b (1)Chen, S., et al. (2015) Robot-assisted laparoscopic versus open pancreaticoduodenectomy: a

prospective, matched, mid-term follow-up study. Surgical Endoscopy.

3a (3)Boggi, U., et al. (2013) Laparoscopic robot-assisted major hepatectomy. J Hepatobiliary

Pancreat Sci.Nigri, G., et al. (2014) Duodenopancreatectomy: Open or minimally invasive approach?

Surgeon. 12:227-234Strijker, M. v. S., H. C.; Besselink, M. G.; van Hillegersberg, R.; Borel Rinkes, I. H.; Vriens,

M. R.; Molenaar, I. Q. (2013) Robot-assisted pancreatic surgery: a systematic review of the literature. HPB (Oxford). 15:1-10

3b (33)Bao, P. Q., et al. (2013) Retrospective Comparison of Robot-Assisted Minimally Invasive

Versus Open Pancreaticoduodenectomy for Periampullary Neoplasms. Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery.

Benizri, E. I., et al. (2013) Short-term perioperative outcomes after robot-assisted and laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy. Journal of Robotic Surgery. 8:125-132

Berelavichus, S. V., et al. (2013) [Robotic-assisted and laparoscopic hepatic resections for nonparasitic cysts of posterior liver segments.]. Khirurgiia (Mosk). 6:14-19

Boggi, U., et al. (2014) Laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy: a systematic literature review. Surgical Endoscopy.

Boggi, U., et al. (2014) Laparoscopic robot-assisted versus open total pancreatectomy: a case-matched study. Surgical Endoscopy.

Buchs, N. C. A., P.; Bianco, F. M.; Ayloo, S.; Benedetti, E.; Giulianotti, P. C. (2011) Robotic Versus Open Pancreaticoduodenectomy: A Comparative Study at a Single Institution. World Journal of Surgery.

Butturini, G., et al. (2015) A prospective non-randomised single-center study comparing laparoscopic and robotic distal pancreatectomy. Surgical Endoscopy.

Chalikonda, S. A.-S., J. R.; Walsh, R. M. (2012) Laparoscopic robotic-assisted pancreaticoduodenectomy: a case-matched comparison with open resection. Surgical Endoscopy.

Chen, S., et al. (2015) Robotic approach improves spleen-preserving rate and shortens postoperative hospital stay of laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy: a matched cohort study. Surgical Endoscopy.

Cheng, K. S., B.; Peng, C.; Deng, X.; Hu, S. (2013) Initial experiences in robot-assisted middle pancreatectomy. HPB (Oxford). 15:315-321

Cirocchi, R., et al. (2013) A systematic review on robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy. Surgical Oncology.

Daouadi, M. Z., A. H.; Zenati, M. S.; Choudry, H.; Tsung, A.; Bartlett, D. L.; Hughes, S. J.; Lee, K. K.; James Moser, A.; Zeh, H. J. (2012) Robot-assisted minimally invasive distal pancreatectomy is superior to the laparoscopic technique. Annals of Surgery.

Di Sandro, S., et al. (2014) Totally robotic liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma in cirrhotic patients: safety and feasibility. Journal of Robotic Surgery.

Dokmak, S., et al. (2014) Robot-Assisted Minimally Invasive Distal Pancreatectomy Is Superior to the Laparoscopic Technique. Annals of Surgery.

Duran, H., et al. (2014) Does robotic distal pancreatectomy surgery offer similar results as laparoscopic and open approach? A comparative study from a single medical center. International Journal of Medical Robotics and Computer Assisted Surgery. 10:280-285

Kang, C. M. C., S. H.; Hwang, H. K.; Lee, W. J.; Chi, H. S. (2011) Minimally invasive (laparoscopic and robot-assisted) approach for solid pseudopapillary tumor of the distal pancreas: a single-center experience. Journal of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Sciences. 18:87-93

Kang, C. M. K., D. H.; Lee, W. J.; Chi, H. S. (2011) Conventional laparoscopic and robot-assisted spleen-preserving pancreatectomy: Does da Vinci have clinical advantages? Surgical Endoscopy and Other Interventional Techniques. 25:2004-2009

Kwon, W., et al. (2014) Which method of pancreatic surgery do medical consumers prefer among open, laparoscopic, or robotic surgery? a survey. Journal of the Korean Surgical Society. 86:7-15

Lai, E. C. H. T., C. N.; Yang, G. P. C.; Li, M. K. W. (2011) Multimodality laparoscopic liver resection for hepatic malignancy - From conventional total laparoscopic approach to robot-assisted laparoscopic approach. International Journal of Surgery.

Lai, E. C. H. Y., G. P. C.; Tang, C. N. (2012) Robot-assisted laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy versus open pancreaticoduodenectomy - A comparative study. International Journal of Surgery. 10:475-479

Lee, S. Y., et al. (2015) Distal pancreatectomy: A single institution's experience in open, laparoscopic, and robotic approaches. Journal of the American College of Surgeons. 220:18-27

Orti-Rodríguez, R. J. (2012) Is Robotic pancreatic surgery expected access by the minimal access pancreatic surgeons? World Journal of Laparoscopic Surgery. 5:49-53

Orti-Rodriguez, R. J. and S. H. Rahman (2014) A comparative review between laparoscopic and robotic pancreaticoduodenectomies. Surgical Laparoscopy, Endoscopy and Percutaneous Techniques. 24:103-108

Packiam, V. B., D. L.; Tohme, S.; Reddy, S.; Marsh, J. W.; Geller, D. A.; Tsung, A. (2012) Minimally Invasive Liver Resection: Robotic Versus Laparoscopic Left Lateral Sectionectomy. Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery. 16:2233-2238

Patriti, A., et al. (2014) Robot-assisted versus open liver resection in the right posterior section. JSLS: Journal of the Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons. 18:1-6

Pelletier, J. S., et al. (2013) Robotic-assisted hepatic resection: a systematic review. International of Medical Robots and Computer Assisted Surgery.

Spampinato, M. G., et al. (2014) Perioperative outcomes of laparoscopic and robot-assisted major hepatectomies: an Italian multi-institutional comparative study. Surgical Endoscopy.

Tranchart, H., et al. (2014) Traditional versus Robot-Assisted Full Laparoscopic Liver Resection: A Matched-Pair Comparative Study. World Journal of Surgery.

Troisi, R. I. P., A.; Montalti, R.; Casciola, L. (2013) Robot assistance in liver surgery: a real advantage over a fully laparoscopic approach? Results of a comparative bi-institutional analysis. International of Medical Robots and Computer Assisted Surgery.

Waters, J. A. C., D. F.; Wiebke, E. A.; Dumas, R. P.; Beane, J. D.; Aguilar-Saavedra, J. R.; Ball, C. G.; House, M. G.; Zyromski, N. J.; Nakeeb, A.; Pitt, H. A.; Lillemoe, K. D.; Schmidt, C. M. (2010) Robotic distal pancreatectomy: Cost effective? Surgery.

Wu, Y. M., et al. (2014) Robotic-assisted minimally invasive liver resection. Asian J Surg.Yu, Y. D., et al. (2014) Robotic versus laparoscopic liver resection: a comparative study from

a single center. Langenbeck's Archives of Surgery. 399:1039-1045Zhou, N. X. C., J. Z.; Liu, Q.; Zhang, X.; Wang, Z.; Ren, S.; Chen, X. F. (2011) Outcomes of

pancreatoduodenectomy with robotic surgery versus open surgery. International of Medical Robots and Computer Assisted Surgery.

Nissen Fundoplication (13)

1a (3)Markar, S. R. K., A. P.; Hagen, M. E.; Talamini, M.; Horgan, S.; Wagner, O. J. (2010)

Robotic vs. laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease: systematic review and meta-analysis. International of Medical Robots and Computer Assisted Surgery. 6:125-131

Wang, Z. Z., Q.; Jin, Z. (2012) Meta-analysis of robot-assisted versus conventional laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease. ANZ Journal of Surgery.

Yao, G., et al. (2014) Robotic Nissen fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux disease: a meta-analysis of prospective randomized controlled trials. Surgery Today.

1b (1)Müller-Stich, B. P. R., M. A.; Mehrabi, A.; Wente, M. N.; Fischer, L.; Köninger, J.; Gutt, C.

N. (2009) No relevant difference in quality of life and functional outcome at 12 months' follow-up-A randomised controlled trial comparing robot-assisted versus conventional laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication. Langenbeck's Archives of Surgery. 394:441-446

2a (1)Schijven, M. P., et al. (2014) Laparoscopic surgery for gastro-esophageal acid reflux disease.

Best Practice and Research. Clinical Gastroenterology. 28:97-109

3a (2)Hambraeus, M., et al. (2013) A literature review of the outcomes after robot-assisted

laparoscopic and conventional laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication for gastro-esophageal reflux disease in children. International of Medical Robots and Computer Assisted Surgery.

Mi, J. K., Y.; Chen, X.; Wang, B.; Wang, Z. (2010) Whether robot-assisted laparoscopic fundoplication is better for gastroesophageal reflux disease in adults: A systematic

review and meta-analysis. Surgical Endoscopy and Other Interventional Techniques. 24:1803-1814

3b (6)Anderberg, M. K., C. C.; Arnbjornsson, E. (2007) Robotic fundoplication in children.

Pediatric Surgery International. 23:123-127Cadiere, G. B. H., J.; Vertruyen, M.; Bruyns, J.; Germay, O.; Leman, G.; Izizaw, R. (2001)

Evaluation of telesurgical (robotic) NISSEN fundoplication. Surgical Endoscopy. 15:918-923

Ceccarelli, G. P., A.; Biancafarina, A.; Spaziani, A.; Bartoli, A.; Bellochi, R.; Casciola, L. (2009) Intraoperative and Postoperative Outcome of Robot-Assisted and Traditional Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication. European Surgical Research. 43:198-203

Frazzoni, M. C., R.; Colli, G.; Melotti, G. (2011) Conventional versus robot-assisted laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication: a comparison of postoperative acid reflux parameters. Surgical Endoscopy.

Hartmann, J. M., C.; Ordemann, J.; Nocon, M.; Raue, W.; Braumann, C. (2009) Long-term results of quality of life after standard laparoscopic vs. robot-assisted laparoscopic fundoplications for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease. A comparative clinical trial. International of Medical Robots and Computer Assisted Surgery. 5:32-37

Melvin, W. S. N., B. J.; Krause, K. R.; Schneider, C.; Ellison, E. C. (2002) Computer-enhanced vs. standard laparoscopic antireflux surgery. Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery. 6:11-15; discussion 15-16

Appendix 1: LOE Definitions

The definitions of the level of evidence (LOE) for all scientific publications stored in the

Intuitive Surgical robotic publications library are based on the Oxford Centre for Evidence

Based Medicine 2009 Levels of Evidence.

Level 1:

1a) Systematic reviews* of Randomized Control Trials (RCT’s)

1b) Randomized Controlled Trials (RCT)

1c) RCT’s for robotic technique studies

Level 2:

2a) Systematic reviews* of comparison studies only or independent database population studies

2b) Prospective non-randomized studies and RCT’s that have N<20

Level 3:

3a) Systematic reviews* mixing both comparison and single arm studies

3b) Retrospective comparison studies and prospective non-randomized studies that have N<20

Level 4:

4a) Literature reviews

4b) Single-arm studies and retrospective comparison studies that have N<20

Level 5:

Case reports (single arm studies with N<20) Animal and cadaver studies Bench research Expert Opinion/Editorial

*includes Meta-Analysis

References 2: Limitations of RCTsCook J. A. (2009) The challenges faced in the design, conduct and analysis of surgical

randomized controlled trials. Trials. 10:9 Farrokhyar F.; Karanicolas P. J.; Thoma A.; et al. (2010) Randomized controlled trials of

surgical interventions. Ann Surg. 252:409-416Unger C. A.; Barber M. D. (2015) Studying surgical innovations: Challenges of the

randomized controlled trial. JMIG. 22:573-582Sox H. C.; Helfand M.; Grimshaw J.; et al. (2010) Comparative effectiveness research:

Challenges for medical journals. Am J Managed Care 16:e131-133Leonard D. T. (2010) Comparative effectiveness and real-world evidence. Am J Managed

Care. 16:410-411Garrison L. P. Jr.; Neumann P. J.; Erickson P.; et al. (2007) Using real-world data for

coverage and payment decisions: The ISPOR real-world data task force report. Value in Health. 10:326-335

Hershman D. L.; Wright J. D. (2012) Comparative effectiveness research in oncology methodology: Observational data. J Clinc Onc. 30:4215-4220

Drummond M.; Griffin A.; Tarricone R. (2008) Economic evaluation for devices and drugs- Same or different? Value in Health. 12:402-404

Neuman H. B.; Greenberg C. C. (2014) Comparative effectiveness research: Opportunities in surgical oncology. Sem Radiat Oncol. 24:43-48

McLeod, R. S. (1999) Issues in Surgical Randomized Controlled Trials. World J Surg. 23:1210-1214

Dreyer N. A.; Tunis S. R.; Berger M.; et al. (2010) Why observational studies should be among the tools used in comparative effectiveness research. Health Affairs. 29:1818-1825

Ramsay C.; Pickard R.; Robertson C.; et al. (2012) Systematic review and economic modelling of the relative clinical benefit and cost-effectiveness of laparoscopic surgery and robotic surgery for removal of the prostate in men with localised prostate cancer. Health Technol Assess. 16(41):1-313

Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) (2012) Health Technology Assessment of robot-assisted surgery in selected surgical procedures. Available at: http://www.hiqa.ie/healthcare/health-technology-assessment/assessments September 2011; Accessed 24 September 2015.

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) (2014) Prostate cancer: diagnosis and treatment NICE clinical guideline 175. Available at: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg175/resources/guidance-prostate-cancer-diagnosis-and-treatment-pdf January 2014; Accessed 24 September 2015.