On May 28, experts from Peking University Shougang Hospital (PKUSH) performed a pancreaticoduodenectomy using a domestically developed single-port surgical robot. The procedure allowed Professor Laurent Sulpice, Head of the Hepatobiliary and Digestive Surgery Department at Rennes University Hospital in France, and his delegation to experience China’s robust minimally invasive surgical prowess up close. It also served as a vivid microcosm of how China’s high-end medical equipment has evolved from following global pioneers to taking the lead worldwide.

Pancreaticoduodenectomy is nicknamed the “Mount Everest” of abdominal surgery due to intricate anatomical structures, extensive resection scope, stringent anastomosis standards and confined operating space, all of which render the procedure extremely challenging. Led by Director Leng Jianjun, the Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery at PKUSH has pioneered the exploration and clinical practice of complex single-port robotic hepatobiliary-pancreatic surgeries in China, placing itself at the forefront of technological innovation.

During the exchange, Dr. Leng Jianjun, Hospital Vice President and Director of the Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery at PKUSH, and Professor Sulpice each presented an overview of their respective institutions. The visit was structured in three progressive sessions: case discussions, ward rounds and live surgery observation. Shifting from paper-based clinical data to real-world operations, and from discipline development to patient-centered humanistic care, the French specialists spent a full day conducting an in-depth review of the department. Their exchanges ultimately centered on the clinical application and future prospects of single-port robotic surgery in hepatobiliary and pancreatic specialties.

The highlight of the event was the live observation by the French experts of a highly difficult pancreaticoduodenectomy performed with a domestically developed single-port surgical robot. Leveraging the high-definition 3D vision and bionic snake-like robotic arms of the homegrown single-port robotic system, Dr. Leng Jianjun’s team carried out millimeter-precision delicate manipulations inside the patient’s body. Professor Sulpice commented that the visit allowed him not only to witness state-of-the-art surgical techniques, but also to gain a full picture of a modern, standardized and patient-centric surgical center.

After leaving the operating room, Chinese and French experts held candid discussions on technical specifics, future development directions and existing challenges concerning wider clinical adoption of single-port robotic surgery in hepatobiliary and pancreatic disciplines. More importantly, the two sides finalized cooperation intentions covering technology promotion, joint scientific research and talent training. A seed of collaboration has been planted, expected to yield abundant academic achievements and clinical breakthroughs going forward.

Written by: Wu Zhaoxia

Edited by: LiuXin

Source: Peking University Shougang Hospital