Establishing a successful robotic surgery program and improving operating room efficiency: literature review and our experience report

Abstract

The benefits and outcomes of robotic surgery are well established in the literature across multiple specialties. The increasing need for and dissemination of this technology associated with high costs, demand adequate planning during its implementation. Therefore, after years of training several robotic surgeons and establishing multiple robotic programs worldwide, the purpose of this article is to focus on the necessary elements in the initial phase of establishing a robotics program. We summarized in our article crucial factors when implementing a robotic program. Therefore, we explained in detail the critical aspects of the program design, implementation, marketing, research and outcomes, and ultimately improving efficiency. The creation of a robotics planning committee composed of several hospital individuals contributes in different lines of work such as cost evaluation, staff training, and OR modifications. A multidisciplinary approach and a robotic lead surgeon are also recommended to guarantee surgical volume and satisfactory outcomes. Furthermore, market analysis should evaluate the competition with other centres and potential surgical candidates in that area. Data collection should also be considered a vital element of the program organization, which assures quality control and helps to diagnose any program deficiency. We believe that the robotic program should be individualized according to the economy and reality of each centre. The success and duration of a robotic surgery program depend on long-term results. Therefore, careful planning with a robotic committee defining the types of procedures to be performed and appropriate multidisciplinary training to avoid surgery cancelations are crucial factors in establishing a successful program.