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Effects of a force feedback function in a surgical robot on the suturing procedure
Yoshimi Yamasaki1, Masanori Tokunaga2, Yoshihiro Sakai1
1Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8510, Japan.
Surgical Endoscopy
|December 13, 2023
Summary
Robotic surgery force feedback reduces applied force during suturing without compromising quality. This technology shows greater benefits for younger surgeons, aiding their training and skill development in robotic procedures.
Area of Science:
- Robotics in Surgery
- Surgical Technology
- Haptic Feedback
Background:
- Current robotic surgical systems lack force feedback capabilities.
- Evaluating the impact of force feedback on suturing is crucial for advancing robotic surgery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the benefits of a force feedback function in robotic suturing.
- To determine if force feedback improves suturing quality and efficiency.
Main Methods:
- Twenty surgeons (young and senior groups) performed suturing tasks with and without robotic force feedback.
- Objective assessment system (A-LAP mini) evaluated suturing quality.
- Task accomplishment time and maximal applied force were recorded.
Main Results:
- Maximal force applied was significantly reduced with force feedback (2.8 N vs. 3.4 N).
- Suturing quality scores remained consistent regardless of force feedback.
- Task time was slightly reduced in the young surgeon group with force feedback.
Conclusions:
- Robotic force feedback enables reduced maximal force application during suturing while maintaining quality.
- The benefits of force feedback are more pronounced in younger surgeons, suggesting its utility in surgical education.
- Robotic systems with force feedback can enhance the training of novice surgeons.

