Improvement in quality of life after robotic surgery results in patient satisfaction

Background There are well-described benefits to minimally invasive surgery including decreased blood loss, shorter hospital-stay, and faster recovery. The role of robotic surgery in gynecologic oncology has become increasingly prominent; however limited data are available on quality of life (QOL) after robotic surgery. Methods In this prospective, IRB-approved study, women scheduled for robotic surgery for a gynecologic indication between May 2008 and February 2012 completed validated QOL measures at baseline, 6 weeks (6 wk), and 4 months postoperative (4 mo). Functional status (SF-12), symptom severity and interference (MDASI), sexual function (FSFI), and satisfaction with decision (SWD) were assessed at relevant time points. Differences between groups were evaluated using the Mann-Whitney test. Results Among 408 women who underwent robotic surgery 278 (68%) completed the QOL measures. Median age was 55.6 years (range 25.7-85.1). Median BMI was 31.3 kg/m². The majority of patients were white (75%). The most common indication for surgery was endometrial cancer/hyperplasia (59.7%). While physical functioning declined from baseline to 6 wk (51.4 to 41.6, p < 0.001), it improved by 4 mo (53.5). Mental functioning improved over time (baseline 48.6, 6 wk 52.8, and 4 mo 55.6, p < 0.001). Symptom severity decreased over time (p < 0.001) as did symptom interference (p < 0.001). Sexual function improved significantly from baseline (8.6) to 4 mo (20.2, p < 0.001). Patients were satisfied with their decision making (SWD = 30). Conclusion In this prospective study, general health, symptom burden and sexual function returned to or improved beyond baseline levels within 6 weeks of surgery. Overall, women were satisfied with their decision to undergo robotic surgery.