All studies used surgeons that were experienced in laparoscopy, except for two studies (Bell 2008; Gehring 2008).
Complications defined as intra-/peri-operative and post-operative complications (<30 days), except for Cardenas 2010 (late post-operative complications, up to day 10), for Bell 2008 (peri-operative only), Boggess 2008 (post-operative only), Seamon 2009 (peri-operative only) (4 studies).
Experience was variably defined as advanced training in robotics (56); qualified surgeons (63); experienced in robot-assisted approaches (61); familiarity with the use of the robotic system for benign and other malignant pelvic conditions. (53)
Learning curve was variably defined as no mention otherwise (51); the surgeon started performing robotic hysterectomies in 2005 (44); implementation of the robotics program (45); entire experience from initiation (Personal communication, author, July 19th, 2010) (47); as prior to robotic experience (66); the approach was offered. (48)
Age difference was shown for Bell 2008 (RB: 63.0, SD: 10.1 vs. LP: 68.4, SD: 11.9 years, p=0.03).
Stage difference was shown for Boggess 2008, favouring IIB, IIIA/IIIB/IIIC and IVA/IVB tumours in LP (significance not given) and body mass index difference (RB: 32.9, SD: 7.6 vs. LP: 29.0, SD: 6.5 kg/m2, p=0.0008), with a higher body mass index in RB. Body mass index difference for Seamon 2009 (RB: 34.2, SD: 9.0 vs. LP: 28.7, SD: 6.9 kg/m2, p<0.001), with a higher body mass index in RB.
There was no stage information in Bell 2008. There was no difference in uterine weight.