Set-up and docking of the da Vinci surgical system: prospective analysis of initial experience.
BACKGROUND
Set-up and docking of the da Vinci surgical system are assumed to extend overall operating times. We hypothesized that these tasks could be achieved in adequate times. Therefore, a prospective analysis of set-up and docking times of the da Vinci Surgical System was conducted.


METHODS
We prospectively analysed set-up and docking times with the da Vinci surgical system in our division.


RESULTS
Ninety-six patients were operated on over 30 months in our institution. Median set-up time was 22 (range 9-50) min and median docking time was 10 (range 2-70) min. Surgeons with previous docking experience were significantly faster than inexperienced surgeons: 8 (range 2-50) vs. 17.5 (range 10-70) min. Both set-up and docking showed a fast learning curve.


CONCLUSIONS
The data support the conclusion that both set-up and docking of the robot can be achieved in adequate times and have a low impact on overall operating time.
Iranmanesh
Pouya
P
Department of Digestive Surgery, University Hospitals of Geneva, Switzerland.
Morel
Philippe
P
Wagner
Oliver J
OJ
Inan
Ihsan
I
Pugin
François
F
Hagen
Monika E
ME
D013505:Digestive System Surgical Procedures / Q000193:education / Q000295:instrumentation*; D004502:Education, Medical, Continuing; D006801:Humans; D008505:Medical Staff, Hospital / Q000193:education*; D009873:Operating Rooms; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012371:Robotics / Q000193:education / Q000379:methods*; D025321:Surgery, Computer-Assisted / Q000193:education / Q000379:methods*; D013523:Surgical Equipment; D017748:Time Management