Patient Perceptions of Minimally Invasive Robotic Surgery: A Systematic Review

Document Type : Review Article

Authors

1 Department of Surgery - Henry Ford Hospital- Michigan State University Collage of Humen Medicine. Southfield - MI USA

2 Department of Surgery - Henry Ford Hospital - Michigan state university, collage of human medicine - Southfield - MI Collage of Medicine - Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman university - Riyadh -KSA

3 Department of Internal Medicine, McLaren- Macomb, Macomb, MI

10.30476/acrr.2026.108704.1265

Abstract

Advances in digital and mechanical technologies have profoundly transformed modern surgery. Since its
approval by the Food and Drug Administration in 2000, the widespread integration of robotic-assisted surgery
(RAS) has created a complex ethical and political dynamic involving patients, healthcare professionals,
manufacturers, and legislators. In this systematic review, we aimed to identify potential patient- and industryrelated drawbacks of RAS early on and to promote public awareness of the technology. Published data on
patient perceptions of RAS from 2000 to 2024 were analyzed using the PubMed gateway and Cochrane Library
databases. Studies focusing on clinical outcomes or the perceptions of surgeons and healthcare workers were
excluded. Extracted data included sample size, methodology, information sources, prevalent perceptions, and
willingness to undergo RAS. A total of 12 studies involving 35,769 participants met our inclusion and exclusion
criteria. Acceptance of RAS was higher among individuals with higher education levels and in countries where
RAS is commonly practiced; however, concerns about manufacturing defects and the surgeon’s experience
with RAS persisted. Most participants understood that RAS offers greater precision, less pain, and enables
faster recovery. However, many believed that the robot operated autonomously. Previous experience with and
perceived ease of use of the robotic surgery platform were inversely associated with patients’ information
levels, suggesting that increased exposure may lead to a more realistic but not necessarily deeper understanding
of robotic surgery. All included studies were questionnaire-based and varied in design, which may limit the
generalizability of the findings. We conclude that the healthcare industry faces new challenges as innovation
influences the sacred patient-physician relationship. Ethical and legal considerations, including informed
consent, machine malfunction, cost-effectiveness, and troubleshooting support, affect patients’ perceptions.
Additionally, the media plays a significant role in shaping public understanding of RAS.
Registration: PROSPERO ID CRD42025630165.

Highlights

Arpit Aggarwal (Google Scholar)

Maryam Aleissa (Google Scholar)

Keywords

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