Robotic Abdominal Wall Surgery

Robotic Surgery has redefined the landscape of abdominal wall hernia repair, offering technical advantages that benefit both simple and complex cases. From inguinal hernias to massive ventral/incisional hernias, the robotic platform provides enhanced dexterity, superior visualization, and ergonomic benefits. As adoption grows, critical questions emerge regarding its optimal use across the full spectrum of hernia pathology. This Special Issue seeks to consolidate the latest evidence, innovations, and expert insights on robotic approaches to abdominal wall hernias, establishing a foundation for evidence-based practice and future research.

Scope
This collection will examine robotic applications across the entire continuum of abdominal wall hernias, including but not limited to:

- Primary hernias (inguinal, umbilical, epigastric)
- Ventral/incisional hernias (from simple to complex)
- Recurrent hernias
- Special scenarios (parastomal, flank, subcostal, and loss-of-domain hernias)

Key focus areas will include:

1. Technique Optimization
- Procedure-specific approaches (TAPP vs. TEP for inguinal, posterior component separation for large ventral hernias)
- Mesh fixation methods and material selection
- Single-dock vs. multi-dock strategies

2. Outcomes Research
- Comparative effectiveness studies (robotic vs. open/laparoscopic)
- Long-term recurrence rates and quality-of-life measures
- Cost-benefit analyses across healthcare systems

3. Technological Integration
- AI-assisted preoperative planning and intraoperative guidance
- Next-generation robotic platforms and instrumentation
- Enhanced recovery protocols specific to robotic hernia surgery

4. Education & Implementation
- Standardized training pathways
- Learning curve quantification for different hernia types
- Centre-of-excellence development models

Why This Matters Now
The global expansion of robotic hernia programs demands rigorous evaluation of outcomes across all hernia types. This Special Issue will serve as a resource for:

- Surgeons seeking procedure-specific robotic techniques
- Researchers investigating comparative outcomes
- Healthcare systems evaluating technology adoption
- Policy makers establishing best practice guidelines

We welcome original research, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and expert commentaries that advance the field. Particular emphasis will be placed on studies that:
- Provide hernia-specific outcome data
- Address economic or healthcare disparities
- Introduce novel technical modifications

Fee Support
As a Gold open-access journal, all submissions are subject to publishing fees. If you require support for Article Processing Charges (APC) a limited number of waivers are available, to apply please complete our Fee Support Application form. JAWS’ authors can also benefit from financial support from their institution through Frontiers' Institutional Agreements. For full details please see the journals Publishing Fees page. Any questions? Please contact the Publishing Office.

Article types and fees

This Special Issue accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Special Issue description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Commentary
• Editorial
• In Memoriam
• Letter to the Editor
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• ... View all formats

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Special Issue accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Special Issue description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Commentary
• Editorial
• In Memoriam
• Letter to the Editor
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Protocol
• Review

Keywords: Robotic Surgery, hernia repair, abdominal wall, Technique Optimization, Technological Integration