Robotic-assisted minimally invasive esophagectomy (RAMIE) significantly improves functional recovery and reduces complications compared to open esophagectomy, making it the preferred technique at high-volume centers.

• RAMIE leads to fewer overall complications and better quality of life, with contemporary leak rates of 11-16% and mortality <4%.
• Long-term oncological outcomes are equivalent; 5-year survival rates stand at 48%, indicating RAMIE’s safety and effectiveness.

As data from the UGIRA registry continues to accumulate, surgical teams should consider transitioning to this approach, particularly for patients with locally advanced esophageal cancer.