Robotically assisted coronary surgery: what is the future?
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this review is to assess the current state of robotics in coronary revascularization and to consider what advances may be forthcoming.


RESULTS
Several groups have been able to utilize robotic telemanipulation to perform coronary revascularization via limited access. Although the patients are highly selected, results in experienced centers are comparable to open coronary artery bypass grafting.


CONCLUSIONS
The ultimate goal of minimally invasive coronary surgery is totally endoscopic coronary revascularization without utilization of cardiopulmonary bypass. This goal can be realized with the utilization of robotic technology.
Anderson
Curtis A
CA
Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina 27834, USA. andersoncu@ecu.edu
Rodriguez
Evelio
E
Chitwood
W Randolph
WR
D003324:Coronary Artery Disease / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D019060:Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000639:trends; D009204:Myocardial Revascularization / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000639:trends*; D012371:Robotics / Q000639:trends*