# Perceptions, Expectations, and Barriers to Robotic-Assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Cross-Sectional Study of 218 Patients

## TL;DR

This study explores how Brazilian patients perceive robotic knee surgery, finding that while they are interested in its precision, they are concerned about costs and lack of information.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into patient perceptions and barriers to robotic knee surgery in Brazil, emphasizing the role of education and cost in adoption.

## Key findings

- Most patients had superficial knowledge of robotic surgery, with physicians and internet/social media as primary information sources.
- Despite interest in precision and implant durability, 50% of patients were concerned about high costs and 30% about lack of human control.
- Only 30% were willing to pay out of pocket, highlighting economic barriers and the need for better financing options.

## Abstract

To assess the perceptions and expectations of Brazilian patients regarding robotic orthopedic knee surgery, addressing their prior knowledge, technique-related concerns, economic impact, and acceptance of the technology.

The present quantitative, observational, cross-sectional study employed a structured questionnaire administered to 218 orthopedic patients undergoing knee arthroplasty at a specialized outpatient clinic. The study evaluated sociodemographic variables, information sources and levels, expectations regarding benefits, concerns related to robotic surgery, and the economic impact on decision-making. Data analysis used descriptive and inferential statistics (Chi-squared test and logistic regression), with significance set at
p
 < 0.05.

Most patients (75%) had superficial knowledge about robotic surgery. Their chief sources of information were the attending physicians (40%) and the internet/social media (35%). In total, 60% of the patients had a positive attitude about robotic surgery, with expectations regarding greater precision (70%) and implant durability (55%). However, concerns about high costs (50%) and lack of human control (30%) were common. Willingness to pay for the procedure out of pocket was low (30%), mainly due to its high cost and lack of health insurance coverage.

Patients showed high interest in robotic surgery, but they remained hesitant due to economic concerns and the lack of adequate information. Educational strategies and more accessible financing models can significantly increase the acceptance and adoption of this technology in Brazil.