Robotic Applications in Cardiac Surgery

TL;DR

This paper reviews the evolution and clinical outcomes of robotic systems in cardiac surgery, highlighting how minimally invasive techniques have improved dexterity and access compared to traditional methods.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements and clinical results in robotic cardiac surgery, emphasizing technological progress and improved patient outcomes.

Findings

Robotic systems enhance dexterity in minimally invasive cardiac procedures.

Clinical results show improved recovery times and reduced complications.

Robotics enable complex surgeries in confined spaces.

Abstract

Traditionally, cardiac surgery has been performed through a median sternotomy, which allows the surgeon generous access to the heart and surrounding great vessels. As a paradigm shift in the size and location of incisions occurs in cardiac surgery, new methods have been developed to allow the surgeon the same amount of dexterity and accessibility to the heart in confined spaces and in a less invasive manner. Initially, long instruments without pivot points were used, however, more recent robotic telemanipulation systems have been applied that allow for improved dexterity, enabling the surgeon to perform cardiac surgery from a distance not previously possible. In this rapidly evolving field, we review the recent history and clinical results of using robotics in cardiac surgery.