Evaluation of the Non-inferiority of the Robotic Approach Over the Laparoscopic Approach in Patients Who Are Candidates for Single Anastomosis Duodeno-ileal Bypass With Sleeve Gastrectomy (SADI-S)

Patients with super-obesity (BMI≥50 kg/m2) present a significant challenge for bariatric surgeons due to the complexity of their cases. Hypo-absorptive procedures are often necessary to achieve the best results in weight loss and metabolic improvements. However, these procedures are known to be among the most difficult to perform, especially in super-obese patients. In recent years, there has been considerable interest in applying robotic technology to bariatric surgery, specifically for hypo-absorptive procedures.

The single-anastomosis duodenal switch with biliopancreatic diversion (SADI-S) has gained significant attention among the various hypo-absorptive procedures. This procedure is technically less complex than others, thanks to its reconstruction with a single anastomosis between the duodenum and the ileum. Despite its technical advantages, it maintains the original procedure's desired bariatric and metabolic outcomes. SADI-S is now recognized as an established bariatric procedure by major national and international scientific societies.

However, there is ongoing debate regarding the equivalency of laparoscopic and robotic approaches regarding complications, morbidity, and mortality. Thus, this study aims to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of both minimally invasive approaches (laparoscopic and robotic) in patients undergoing SADI-S.

The study will have a monocentric design involving a prospective, interventional, and randomized comparison between the two surgical strategies. The target population includes patients eligible for SADI-S using a minimally invasive technique, with inclusion criteria being age 18 years or older and informed consent. Patients eligible for different bariatric procedures be excluded.

The study will span a duration of 5 years, and the aim is to enroll an average of 105 patients per year to achieve the final sample size. Primary endpoints include comparing the risk of postoperative complications within 30 days of surgery between the laparoscopic and robotic approaches. Secondary endpoints encompass evaluating intraoperative complications, conversion rates, mortality, operative times, and post-operative hospital stay and conducting a cost analysis of both approaches.