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Robotic Surgery
Policy
Issue: Robotic surgery refers to technology
operated by a surgeon from a computer workstation using remote
control or voice activation to carry out surgical procedures.
It is the latest development in endoscopic minimally invasive
surgery. Reported benefits of robotic surgery include faster,
steadier and easier surgery, greater precision, and visual enhancement,
all of which may translate into improved benefits to the patient.
Robotic surgery requires considerable training but ultimately
may require fewer operating room personnel to perform these
procedures, potentially resulting in lower health care costs.
Because of its growing popularity in the US and FDA approval
of several new robotic surgical systems, VA leadership requested
information about the safety, efficacy and cost-effectiveness
on which to base national policy recommendations for adopting
this technology for use in the VA patient population.
Assessment:
VATAP monitors the literature to support evidence-based national
guidance decisions for provision of robotic surgical services
in VA. VATAP has produced two reports on the topic.
Robotic
Surgery, March 2004
Robotic
Surgery, September 2006
Current Status: VA issued evidence-based policy
recommendations for provision of robotic surgery, which includes
demonstration of expertise and adequate logistical support for
robotic surgery, outcomes monitoring of robotic-assisted procedures
and monitoring of the peer-reviewed literature, to ensure the
highest quality of care and access to the technology for eligible
veterans.
Related
Information:
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