Trends, challenges and ethical considerations in pediatric robotic surgery

Area of Science:

• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Pediatric Surgery
• Surgical Robotics

Background:

• Robotic surgery, exemplified by the da Vinci system, enhances precision in minimally invasive procedures.
• It offers benefits such as reduced recovery times and fewer complications compared to traditional methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the expanding role and advantages of robotic surgery in pediatric cases.
• To identify challenges and emerging trends in pediatric robotic surgery.

Main Methods:

• This study is a narrative review of current literature on pediatric robotic surgery.
• It synthesizes information on benefits, drawbacks, and future directions.

Main Results:

• Robotic surgery provides improved visualization, reduced tremor, and shorter learning curves in pediatric procedures.
• Significant challenges include high costs, limited instrument availability, and ethical concerns regarding equitable access.

Conclusions:

• Pediatric robotic surgery presents significant advantages but faces barriers to widespread adoption.
• Future advancements must balance technological innovation with ethical considerations to ensure equitable access and establish robotic surgery as a standard of care.