There is a common perception among the general public that robotic surgery is risky. People feel that involving artificial intelligence in a surgical procedure leaves too much room for error, and due to the involvement of robots, if an error occurs, it would be catastrophic.
U.S. News and World Report explains this perception is off because even with robots in the surgery, it all comes down to the skill of the surgeon.
All on the surgeon
In robotic surgery, the robot is only a tool. The surgeon controls it. The robot allows the surgeon to do things he or she could not do without this extension or tool. It enhances the surgeon’s abilities and skills. Plus, robots can help to reduce the risk of mistakes.
This is all in direct contrast to those thoughts that robotic surgery is a riskier option. Ironically, when using robots, there is a potential to reduce some of the risks, which means robotic surgery could be safer than other surgeries.
Of course, there are always exceptions. If the surgeon does not know how to properly use the robot, it could lead to mistakes and more risk. It all comes down to ensuring surgeons have proper training in the robotic tools they will use.
In the hands of a well-trained surgeon, robots can make surgery better and safer.
Always some risk
One thing to keep in mind about any surgery is there is always risk. Whether your surgery includes a robot or not, you cannot expect a risk-free or even safe surgery. There is always a chance that something could go wrong.