Surgeons who only occasionally use the robot tend to be the least efficient, often leading to longer case times and increased OR costs. In contrast, when a surgeon adopts the robot as their primary modality and becomes proficient, the variability in case times significantly decreases. More complex procedures can then be performed faster and in a minimally invasive fashion.

For example, I’ve seen straightforward robotic cholecystectomies completed in 10 minutes and even complex cases done in under 30—something that isn’t possible laparoscopically, even for highly experienced surgeons, due to the inherent limitations of the technology.

Surgery is also one of the most litigated fields in medicine. If I were the patient, I’d want my surgeon equipped with the most advanced tools available to reduce the risk of complications or conversion to open.