The 'scrubbed surgeon' in robotic surgery

Area of Science:

• Robotic Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Surgical Assistance

Background:

• Robotic surgery facilitates minimally invasive procedures for surgeons inexperienced with laparoscopy.
• The success of these procedures often relies on a skilled assistant performing patient-side tasks.
• This highlights the critical role of the assistant in robotic surgery programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the literature on the role of the assistant in robotic surgery.
• To discuss the advantages of a trained assistant in robotic surgery programs.
• To emphasize the importance of surgical assistants in advancing robotic surgery.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on robotic surgery and surgical assistants.
• Analysis of the assistant's role in performing critical patient-side tasks.
• Discussion of benefits for developing and established robotic surgery programs.

Main Results:

• The assistant surgeon is essential for enabling surgeons new to laparoscopy to perform robotic procedures.
• A skilled assistant significantly contributes to the successful execution of patient-side tasks.
• The presence of a trained assistant is advantageous for both new and established robotic surgery programs.

Conclusions:

• The assistant surgeon is a key factor in the progress and adoption of robotic surgery.
• Adequate training for surgical assistants is vital for maximizing the benefits of robotic surgery.
• Investing in skilled surgical assistants strengthens robotic surgery programs and patient outcomes.