Developing a successful robotics program.
OBJECTIVE
Advancements in the robotic surgical technology have revolutionized the standard of care for many surgical procedures. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the important considerations in developing a new robotics program at a given healthcare institution.


RESULTS
Patients' interest in robotic-assisted surgery has and continues to grow because of improved outcomes and decreased periods of hospitalization. Resulting market forces have created a solid foundation for the implementation of robotic surgery into surgical practice. Given proper surgeon experience and an efficient system, robotic-assisted procedures have been cost comparable to open surgical alternatives. Surgeon training and experience is closely linked to the efficiency of a new robotics program. Formally trained robotic surgeons have better patient outcomes and shorter operative times. Training in robotics has shown no negative impact on patient outcomes or mentor learning curves.


CONCLUSIONS
Individual economic factors of local healthcare settings must be evaluated when planning for a new robotics program. The high cost of the robotic surgical platform is best offset with a large surgical volume. A mature, experienced surgeon is integral to the success of a new robotics program.
Associated Medical Professionals, Syracuse, New York, USA.
Tyler
T
Luthringer
Ilija
I
Aleksic
Arthur
A
Caire
David M
DM
Albala
D002983:Clinical Competence; D019981:Health Care Sector / Q000191:economics; D017721:Hospital Costs; D006801:Humans; D059032:Learning Curve; D008297:Male; D016730:Program Development; D011468:Prostatectomy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000191:economics / Q000193:education / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D012371:Robotics / Q000191:economics / Q000193:education / Q000295:instrumentation; D025321:Surgery, Computer-Assisted / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000191:economics / Q000193:education / Q000295:instrumentation; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014572:Urology / Q000191:economics / Q000193:education / Q000379:methods*; D014573:Urology Department, Hospital / Q000191:economics