Robotic thoracic surgery: a support team to replace the bedside surgeon.

Area of Science:

• Robotics in Surgery
• Thoracic Surgery
• Surgical Education

Background:

• Implementing a new robotics program introduces distinct challenges compared to routine surgical procedures.
• Key challenges include specialized staff training, operating room logistics, and surgeon adaptation.
• The shift of the surgeon away from the patient necessitates increased responsibilities for the bedside and circulating teams.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the process of establishing a thoracic robotics program.
• To emphasize the critical role of personnel training in program implementation.
• To ensure fluid patient management throughout the surgical process within a robotic thoracic surgery setting.

Main Methods:

• Development of a structured training curriculum for the robotic surgical team.
• Integration of operating room logistics tailored for robotic procedures.
• Phased implementation of the thoracic robotics program with continuous team assessment.

Main Results:

• Successful establishment of a thoracic robotics program.
• Demonstrated improvement in the efficiency of the surgical team through targeted training.
• Enhanced coordination and communication among all operating room personnel.

Conclusions:

• Effective personnel training is paramount for the successful establishment of a thoracic robotics program.
• A well-trained team ensures efficient workflow and patient safety in robotic thoracic surgery.
• The presented process provides a model for developing similar robotic surgery programs.