Humanization of Surgical Care in the Robotic Age: A Triangular Interaction Model Between the Surgeon, the Patient,...

Background/Objectives: In modern medicine, humanization of care is a central theme that highlights the complementarity of clinical care with empathy, communication, and patient-centered values. The increasing use of robotic surgery is rapidly modifying surgical practice, introducing new challenges and opportunities in preserving the human dimension of care. This review aimed to synthesize the available evidence and propose a conceptual model of humanized robotic surgical care. Methods: A structured narrative review of the PubMed/MEDLINE database (from inception to January 2026) was conducted using predefined keywords related to humanization of care, robotic surgery, patient perception, surgeon experience, human factors, communication, ethics, and technological mediation. Relevant English-language publications were critically synthesized to develop a conceptual framework. Results: The literature indicates that robotic surgery influences humanized care through three interconnected domains. First, patients frequently perceive robotic surgery as more precise and technologically advanced, which may generate unrealistic expectations and misconceptions regarding robotic autonomy. Second, robotic platforms reshape the surgeon's experience by improving ergonomics while simultaneously modifying cognitive workload, sensory feedback, and professional identity. Third, technology itself acts as an active mediator influencing communication, trust, decision-making, and relational dynamics. Building upon these findings, we propose an original triangular conceptual framework integrating the patient, the surgeon, and the technology as three interdependent determinants of humanized robotic surgical care. The framework also provides a conceptual basis for understanding the future integration of artificial intelligence into surgical practice. Conclusions: Humanization of care in the era of robotic surgery requires an integrated approach that recognizes the interdependence of patient perception, surgeon experience, and technological mediation. Ensuring effective communication, supporting surgeon well-being, and preserving ethical principles will be essential to aligning innovation with patient-centered care.