Robotic Surgeries have been around since the 1990s, but have gained popularity recently owing to the technological advancements and the huge success records demonstrated by data. The extensive research put into the field has found proponents and opponents in equal measures.
Some arguments put forth by the advocates of robotic surgeries are as follows:
- Precision – One of the most critical requirements during a surgery is the precision with which an incision is made by the surgeon. Robotic surgery eliminates the possibility of human errors with its programmatic precision, thereby making minimally invasive surgeries a reality.
- Control – The amount of control that a surgeon has during a robotic surgery, thanks to a 3D modelling of the surgical site, is much better and enhanced than being in the real operation room.
- Less Fatigue for the Surgeon – This is the biggest advantage of conducting a robotic surgery. The surgeon does not need to stand and bend for hours over a patient and hence is less fatigued. This makes for better real-time decision-making and reduces the possibility of error.
- Less Post-Operative Recovery Time – In conjunction with the precision, this is the biggest and tangible benefit for a patient. Smaller incisions mean less healing time and faster recuperation.
The arguments put forth by critics are:
- Judgement Based Decisions – During a surgery, a surgeon sometimes needs to make split-second decisions based on the patient’s condition. This is not so easy in a simulated environment and looking at multiple screens.
- Nerve Damage due to Improper Positioning – The robots have restricted motion and hence the patient’s position needs to be adjusted leading to permanent damage in some cases.
Robotic surgeries are a major part of medical research, and aim to replace human surgeons completely within the foreseeable future. However, there are multiple risks and dangers associated with the concept that need to be fixed before the procedure is safe for humans.
