Robot-Assisted Repair of Post-Gestational Rectus Diastasis With the Tarup Approach – A Retrospective Evaluation of Patient Satisfaction

Background To evaluate the TARUP (robotic Transabdominal Retromuscular Umbilical Prosthetic Hernia Repair) technique used for post-gestational rectus abdominis diastasis (RD) in terms of complications and patient satisfaction. Methods We retrospectively identified patients with a repair of RD from January 2018 to August 2023. Patients were invited to participate in the study by telephone. Participants completed a questionnaire on physical and cosmetic complaints and patient satisfaction. Results Twelve women had a repair of RD during the study period, and 75% (9/12) participated in this study. All patients had a diastasis of at least 3 cm and a concomitant hernia. The mean length of stay was 1,4 days. No patients were readmitted, but two were seen in the emergency room due to pain. Prior to the surgery 67% (6/9) had limitations with strenuous activities, 78% (7/9) with sport activities and 44% (4/9) with daily tasks, this was significantly reduced after surgery to 0%, 22% (2/9), and 0%, respectively. Daily pain or discomfort from the abdominal wall or back was reported in 56% (4/9) at rest and 67% (6/9) while doing activities, and this was reduced to 11% (1/9) and 22% (2/9) after surgery. Cosmetic satisfaction with the shape of the abdomen was improved, but the main complaint was continuous bulging of the skin in the midline and a crooked midline after surgery. Conclusions The robot-assisted TARUP repair for RD seems to reduce pain and limitations in daily life, however further studies including more patients are needed.