Analysis of cost effectiveness of robotic rectal resection, either sphincter preserving or abdominoperineal extirpation, in the German diagnosis related groups (DRG) system.

Robotic surgery has many well-known benefits for patients and surgeons, while it comes with higher acquisition and maintenance costs. On the other hand, a higher proportion of minimally invasive procedures can save costs by reducing complications, decreasing hospital stays due to lower morbidity, and saving personnel.

To what extent can robotic surgery be cost-covering or even profitable, depending on the postoperative course? This question is investigated under the conditions of the German DRG system.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 18y
• histologically proven rectal cancer with curative therapeutic approach
• suitable for minimally-invasive surgery

Exclusion Criteria:

• no rectal cancer
• primary open surgery

All patients operated robotically-assisted between 01/2018 and 12/2019 for rectal cancer are suitable for inclusion.