This study aimed to compare the cost of robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy with "open" pancreaticoduodenectomy in a hepatobiliary program. The researchers prospectively followed 386 patients who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy at the institution from August 2012 to November 2019. They analyzed and compared various cost parameters, including total, variable, fixed-direct, fixed-indirect costs, and profitability for both surgical approaches.

The results showed that the cost of care for robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy was higher compared to "open" pancreaticoduodenectomy across all categories, except for total indirect cost. Robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy was associated with lower estimated blood loss and a shorter length of hospital stay. However, profitability for robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy was achieved in less than one-third of patients since 2016.

In conclusion, the study suggests that while robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy may offer certain advantages, such as reduced blood loss and shorter hospital stay, it comes with higher overall costs compared to the traditional "open" approach. Achieving profitability for robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy remains a challenge for the institution. The study emphasizes the need for discussions among all stakeholders regarding the role of the robotic platform in pancreaticoduodenectomy.