Our Summary

Robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) is a new technology that has changed the way surgeries are conducted around the world. This study took a look at how RAS is being used in Arab countries. Researchers found information by looking at scientific papers and industry reports, and they found 56 papers that were relevant to their study.

They discovered that most of the research on RAS in the Arab world was coming from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. There were also some new trends they noticed, such as more surgeries involving multiple specialties using the robotic systems, new ways of performing surgeries from a distance (telesurgery), and more research being published on these topics.

However, there aren’t many large, high-quality studies on this subject yet. The researchers concluded that while the Arab world has made a lot of progress in adopting RAS, there is still work to be done. But they also noted that the foundation for more widespread use of RAS in the Arab world is already in place.

FAQs

  1. What is robotic-assisted surgery (RAS)?
  2. Which Arab countries are leading in the research and use of RAS?
  3. What are the new trends in RAS identified in the Arab world?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient that robotic surgery can offer many benefits, such as smaller incisions, less pain, faster recovery times, and better precision. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions before and after the surgery to ensure the best possible outcome. Additionally, it is essential to discuss any concerns or questions with your healthcare provider to fully understand the robotic surgery process and what to expect.

Suitable For

Patients who may benefit from robotic surgery include those undergoing procedures in urology, gynecology, general surgery, cardiothoracic surgery, and head and neck surgery. These patients may have conditions such as prostate cancer, endometriosis, gallbladder disease, lung cancer, or throat cancer. Robotic surgery may be recommended for patients who are looking for minimally invasive options, faster recovery times, reduced pain, and improved precision during their surgery. However, it is important for each patient to consult with their healthcare provider to determine if robotic surgery is the best option for their specific condition.

Timeline

Before robotic surgery:

  1. Patient is diagnosed with a medical condition that requires surgery.
  2. Patient consults with a surgeon to discuss treatment options, including robotic surgery.
  3. Patient undergoes pre-operative tests and evaluations to determine if they are a suitable candidate for robotic surgery.
  4. Patient receives information and education about the procedure, including the benefits and risks.

After robotic surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes robotic-assisted surgery, where the surgeon controls robotic arms to perform the procedure with precision.
  2. Patient experiences a shorter hospital stay and faster recovery compared to traditional surgery.
  3. Patient may require follow-up appointments with their surgeon to monitor their recovery and address any concerns.
  4. Patient may need to undergo physical therapy or rehabilitation to regain strength and function.
  5. Patient experiences improved outcomes and quality of life compared to traditional surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific procedure are you recommending for robotic surgery, and why do you believe it is the best option for me?

  2. How experienced are you and your team in performing robotic surgeries, specifically for the procedure I need?

  3. What are the potential benefits of robotic surgery compared to traditional surgery for my condition?

  4. What are the potential risks and complications associated with robotic surgery for my condition?

  5. What is the recovery time for robotic surgery compared to traditional surgery for my condition?

  6. Will my insurance cover the cost of robotic surgery, or will there be additional out-of-pocket expenses?

  7. How long will the robotic surgery take, and what will my hospital stay be like afterwards?

  8. Are there any long-term effects or considerations I should be aware of if I choose robotic surgery for my condition?

  9. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider aside from robotic surgery?

  10. Can you provide me with any resources or information to help me better understand the process and potential outcomes of robotic surgery for my condition?

Reference

Authors: Azhar R, Saikali S, Jaber AR, Gamal A, AbouMarzouk O, Abdelhakim M, Hajj AE, Patel V. Journal: J Robot Surg. 2025 Mar 3;19(1):95. doi: 10.1007/s11701-025-02260-1. PMID: 40032660