First Impressions of the New da Vinci 5 Robotic Platform and Experience in Performing Robot-assisted Radical Prostatectomy

Over the past two decades, robotic surgery has seen substantial advances, with significant growth in novel platforms, particularly since 2019. As a high-volume center experienced with various robotic systems, we share our initial impressions of the new da Vinci 5 platform for robot-assisted radical prostatectomy. Key improvements include enhanced console ergonomics, more precise operative imaging, and the integration of smart commands for streamlined surgical control. Notably, force feedback instruments offer the potential for reduced tissue trauma, although further studies are needed to evaluate long-term outcomes and cost effectiveness. Our early experiences suggest that surgeons familiar with previous da Vinci models, particularly the Xi platform, will find the transition to the da Vinci 5 seamless, with minimal learning curve adjustments. Using propensity score matching, we compared perioperative outcomes for 50 da Vinci 5 RARP procedures (performed after the learning curve) with 150 da Vinci Xi cases. In our experience, optimal performance and perioperative outcomes were obtained with both models. Further studies are needed to identify any clinically significant advantages of one platform over the other.

Patient summary: We compared outcomes for patients undergoing removal of the prostate using two different surgical robots (da Vinci Xi and da Vinci 5). Optimal operative outcomes were obtained with both robots, but further studies are needed to evaluate whether one robot is clinically superior to the other.