Robotic, laparoscopic and endoscopic resection

What it is

Laparoscopy works through small ports in the abdomen with a camera and instruments; in robotic surgery the surgeon controls those instruments from a console. Endoscopic resection removes an early cancer confined to the lining through an endoscope passed by mouth, avoiding surgery altogether.

All three aim for smaller openings, less pain and faster recovery. Which one is used is decided by stage and tumour location.

Who it suits

Early stomach and colorectal cancers confined to the lining can often be dealt with entirely by endoscopic resection. Cancer that has reached the muscle layer or beyond is removed laparoscopically or robotically, together with part of the organ and its lymph nodes.

Robotic surgery is common for thyroid and prostate cancer; gynaecological cancers vary by type. The review states which resection applies and whether further tests are needed.

How it proceeds

Within about three days of arrival, endoscopy, CT and blood tests confirm the stage and the operation date is set. You are admitted the day before surgery, with an interpreter present for consent.

During your stay after the operation, diet stages and walking are scheduled and the coordinator checks on you daily. One outpatient visit follows discharge before you fly home.

Duration and recovery

A hospital stay of 2–4 nights is usual for endoscopic resection and 5–10 nights for laparoscopic or robotic resection. You fly home one to two weeks after discharge; the final pathology and whether chemotherapy is needed are explained at the outpatient visit before you leave.

Eating changes after a gastrectomy, so nutrition counselling and a multilingual guide come as standard.

Cost

Hospitals' published international prices for gastrectomy range from USD 13,900 to 22,500. Colorectal, thyroid and prostate procedures vary by hospital and method; the estimate itemises tests, surgery, admission and medication.

The review fee is credited against your bill when you go ahead with treatment.

In Korea

Stomach cancer is among the cancers most often operated on in Korea, with a five-year relative survival of 78.6% (diagnosed 2019–2023). Thyroid, colorectal and prostate resections are also high-volume, with standardised pathways.

Hospital names and results are not listed; the opinion compares three hospitals for you.

Frequently asked questions

Is robotic surgery better than laparoscopy?

It depends on the organ and the stage. In the narrow pelvis (prostate, rectum) the robot's advantages are significant; for many stomach and colon cases laparoscopy is enough. Costs differ, so the opinion sets out both.

What if chemotherapy is needed after surgery?

That is decided by the final pathology. If it is needed, we propose either starting the first cycle in Korea and continuing at home, or extending your stay — with an estimate for each.

How long should I plan to stay?

About 10 days for endoscopic resection, and 2–3 weeks for laparoscopic or robotic resection. Family accommodation is arranged within walking distance of the hospital.

Statistics on this page are official national statistics, not the results of any particular hospital. Outcomes differ by stage and by individual health. Discuss diagnosis and treatment decisions with your physicians.