Urology - Pros and Cons of Robot-Assisted Surgeries

Main Category: Urology / Nephrology
Article Date: 29 May 2005 - 11:00 PDT

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Innovative technologies are now, more then ever, playing a prominent role in medicine. Robots are infiltrating hospitals and the symbiotic relationship between man and machine is strengthening. But one question remains, "Are robots truly beneficial?" The American Urological Association's press briefing entitled Laparoscopic Prostatectomy moderated by Anthony Smith, M.D., analyzes the pros and cons of robot-assisted surgeries by examining the cost analysis of the technology and efficacy of the surgeries.

Early Complications and Surgical Margin Status Following Radical Retropubic Prostatectomy (RRP) Compared to Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy(RALP). David S. DiMarco, M.D. and his team used 18 months worth of data and compared the surgical margins and early complications of RRP and RALP. They found comparable incidence and location of positive surgical margins for both procedures, yet RALP yielded higher complication rates among patients but a smaller number of blood transfusion.

Cost-Profit Analysis of DaVinci Robotic Surgery: Is It Worth It?: Jean V. Joseph, M.D. and his team compared the costs of the initial robot purchase, fixed and variable costs, average cost of reposables and disposables and the average cost for the hospital for a radical prostatectomy. They found that without even accounting for the initial investment, repair and maintenance cost of the robot, the average reimbursement of $8954.00 led to a net loss on every case. Until equipment costs are decreased, using the DaVinci system is not a financially viable option for hospitals and physicians.

Man vs. Machine: Pure Laparoscopic Pyeloplasty vs. DaVinci Pyeloplasty: The question of choosing man or machine is prevalent with the continuous introduction of new technologies in society. Sam B. Bhayani, M.D. and his team examine the issue of efficacy as related to pyeloplasty in their abstract. According to the study, with proper experience in both techniques, there is no advantage in applying DaVinci pyeloplasty over pure laparoscopic pyeloplasty. However, laparoscopic pyeloplasty was found to be preferable from a surgical and hospital standpoint.

"I'm looking forward to moderating this discussion on innovative medical techniques," said Dr. Smith. "The briefing will delve into the world of medical technology and offer data on whether there is an advantage in implementing robotic surgery."

About the American Urological Association: Founded in 1902 and headquartered near Baltimore, Maryland, the American Urological Association, Inc. is the pre-eminent professional organization for urologists, with more than 13,000 members throughout the world. An educational nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, the AUA pursues its mission of fostering the highest standards of urologic care by carrying out a wide variety of programs members and their patients, including UrologyHealth.org, an award-winning on line patient education resource, and the American Urological Association Foundation, Inc., formerly AFUD.

For full copies of abstracts, vist http://www.aua2005.org or contact the Press Room.

American Urological Association (AUA)
1000 Corporate Blvd.
Linthicum, MD 21040
United States
http://www.auanet.org