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Novel force feedback technology improves suturing in robotic-assisted surgery: a pre-clinical study
Elliot L Servais1, Laila Rashidi2, Priyanshi Porwal3
1Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, UMass Chan Medical School, Burlington, MA, USA.
Surgical Endoscopy
|December 31, 2024
Summary
Novel force feedback (FFB) technology in robotic surgery significantly improved novice surgeons' suturing performance. Surgeons using FFB experienced fewer errors, reduced tissue trauma, and completed tasks faster, enhancing surgical outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Robotics
- Surgical Technology
- Medical Engineering
Background:
- Robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) limitations include the inability to sense applied tissue force.
- Force feedback (FFB) technology offers surgeons tactile sensation during robotic procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of novel FFB technology on novice surgeons' suturing performance in RAS.
- To assess FFB's effect on applied force, errors, completion time, and skill ratings.
Main Methods:
- 29 novice surgeons were randomized into FFB and non-FFB groups.
- Participants performed suturing tasks on ex vivo porcine tissues.
- Key metrics included applied force, errors, time, and Robotic Anastomosis Competence Evaluation (RACE) scores.
Main Results:
- FFB group used significantly less force (p<0.006) and made fewer errors (p<0.001).
- FFB group completed tasks faster (p<0.002) and exhibited less tissue trauma.
- Higher RACE skill scores were observed in the FFB group (p=0.012).
Conclusions:
- FFB technology enhances novice surgeons' performance in RAS suturing tasks.
- Reduced force, errors, time, and tissue trauma were observed with FFB.
- Further research is needed to explore FFB's patient benefits.
