Robot-assisted Surgery
The field of surgery has witnessed a transformative evolution with the integration of robotic technology into traditional human-centric practices. Robotic surgery offers precision, minimally invasive techniques, and the potential for remote operation, challenging the traditional expertise-driven approach of human surgery. In comparison, human surgery offers a more personalised and adaptable approach. Both surgical methods have their advantages and disadvantages.
In my opinion, a balance is needed as the coordination between technology and human skills holds the potential to enhance overall surgical outcomes. Human surgery, conducted by skilled and experienced surgeons, offers several advantages. Skilled and experienced surgeons possess a nuanced understanding of patient needs and the ability to tailor their approach to individual cases.
The personalised approach of human surgery involves a detailed understanding of the patient's medical history, lifestyle, and unique anatomy, ensuring that the treatment plan aligns with the individual needs of each patient. This personalised care contributes to improved patient outcomes and creates a sense of trust and confidence between the surgeon and the patient. Also, with unexpected challenges or variations in anatomy, human surgeons can swiftly adjust their techniques, optimising the surgical process in real-time. This adaptability is a distinctive feature that allows for a level of flexibility which is not easily replicated by robotic surgery. However, while human surgery offers a personalised and adaptable approach, it also has limitations. Human error in surgery represents a significant concern within the medical field. Despite the advanced skills and expertise of surgeons, there is always a possibility of human error, which includes misinterpretation of medical information, lapses in concentration, or procedural mistakes that can occur, impacting surgical outcomes. For example, surgeon fatigue, particularly during lengthy procedures, may impact concentration and precision, potentially influencing the overall success of the surgery.
Precision and accuracy are heightened in robot surgery as it involves the use of robotic systems to assist surgeons in performing procedures with enhanced accuracy and control. The mechanical design of the robotic arms and instruments impacts the overall precision and accuracy by decreasing chances of error through decreasing rigidity and backlash. There must be compliance and cohesion between the robotic activity and the surgeon’s instructions. The small instruments allow surgeons to perform steps of the operation inside your body when traditionally, they would have had to make a much larger incision to do that part of the procedure outside of your body. One of the major issues in robotic surgery is latency in movement. This refers to the time it takes for the robot to carry out the surgeon’s commands. As the computer takes time to communicate with the robotic arms, it could lead to a delay in the procedure. While this is not an issue for routine surgery, it could be detrimental in cases of emergency surgery where the surgeon team needs to respond quickly to problems. Another issue is the high cost of the robotic systems. Robotic surgeries cost over $866 more than human surgery, where the initial cost of buying 1 unit of robotic equipment can range from $2-3 million.
​
A clinical trial conducted by scientists from UCL and the University of Sheffield aimed to compare the efficiency and success of bladder cancer removal procedures done by surgeons alone, in comparison to the procedure with the assistance of a robot. The study showed that the robot-assisted surgery patients had a comparable decrease in blood clots, highlighting the success of the surgery. Furthermore, the study found that the robot-assisted group stayed in hospital for 20% less time than the other group, with readmittance to hospital 11% lower for the robot-assisted patients. This trial outlines the impact of robotic surgery in delivering efficient care, suggesting a viable future for the integration of advanced technology into healthcare .
​
In weighing up the merits of human versus robot-assisted surgery, it is clear each approach offers unique benefits and also challenges. Human surgeons bring a sense of experience, intuition and adaptability honed through years of training and specialisation. The human ability to navigate unforeseen complications, make emergency decisions and provide care based on the patient’s wants remains the reason human surgery is at the forefront of medicine. On the other hand, through robot-assisted surgery, humans can receive the benefits due to technological advancements and enhanced precision, dexterity, and access to hard-to-reach areas within the body. Robot systems provide steady hands, 3D visualization and magnification capabilities which reduce trauma, minimize blood loss and shorten recovery times.
While both surgical methods have their advantages and disadvantages, in my opinion, a balance is needed as the co-ordination between technology and human skills holds the potential to enhance overall surgical outcomes and ultimately, the optimal approach to surgery is in a symbiotic relationship where human expertise is complemented by robotic precision.
​
References:
https://www.ucl.ac.uk/news/2022/may/robotic-surgery-safer-and-improves-patient-recovery-time
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/22178-robotic-surgery