Understanding the surgeon's behaviour during robot-assisted surgery: protocol for the qualitative Behav'Robot study

Area of Science:

• Surgical Innovation
• Human Factors in Medicine
• Robotics in Healthcare

Background:

• Robot-assisted surgery (RAS) is increasingly adopted globally, with over 1.2 million procedures in 2019.
• Limited literature exists on surgeon risk-taking mechanisms in RAS.
• Understanding surgeon behavior is crucial for optimizing RAS safety and efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe and understand surgeon behavior during RAS.
• To investigate how surgeon experience impacts behavior and risk-taking in RAS.
• To identify factors influencing behavioral changes in surgeons adopting robotic platforms.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study employing semistructured interviews with surgeons performing RAS.
• Interview guide focuses on behavioral differences, proprioceptive/cognitive influences, and learning curve effects.
• Thematic analysis of transcribed interviews using NVivo software.

Main Results:

• Data collection and analysis are ongoing; specific results are pending.
• The study aims to identify patterns in surgeon adaptation to RAS.
• Anticipated results will detail behavioral shifts related to experience and the robotic interface.

Conclusions:

• This research will provide novel insights into the human element of RAS.
• Findings are expected to inform the development of targeted training programs for robotic surgeons.
• Improved understanding of surgeon behavior can enhance patient safety and surgical outcomes in RAS.