Robot-Assisted Surgery — Steven M. Clark MD

Inspiration And Insights
3 min readMay 3, 2024

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Photo by freepik

Within the healthcare industry, surgical robotics has emerged as one of the most recent innovations, poised to redefine patient care. While laparoscopic procedures have long been a staple in certain surgeries, the emergence of robotic surgery represents a significant stride forward. This technology holds the potential to reshape healthcare delivery, promising improved outcomes for patients undergoing surgical procedures.

As someone deeply committed to the advancement of surgical techniques, Dr. Steven Maurice Clark emphasizes the transformative potential of robotic surgery in enhancing patient care. His perspective sheds light on the pivotal role that the development of robotic surgery plays in shaping the future of healthcare delivery, advocating for its widespread adoption to benefit both patients and practitioners alike.

Here is what Steven had to say —

Healthcare is constantly evolving to deliver better patient outcomes, and surgical robotics are one of most exciting developments today. Laparoscopic (or, minimally invasive) surgeries are the current standard for certain procedures, such as appendectomies, gastric bypasses, or even the removal of small tumors. Robotic surgery is the next step forward, in which the surgeon operates through controlling robot “arms” that manipulate the surgical instruments.

A myriad of benefits come with surgical robotics. Robot-assisted surgery empowers the surgeon to make delicate and precise motions with surgical tools beyond what can usually be accomplished laparoscopically. The surgeon is also able to have a magnified, high-resolution view of the operating area while they are comfortably sitting down and using ergonomic controls, reducing the fatigue that comes from performing surgery. Each of these factors leads to better outcomes for the patient allowing a faster recovery.

Robot-assisted surgery is not yet the standard for laparoscopic procedures, but more and more doctors are training to use robotics. Looking forward, this tool could revolutionize healthcare through “remote surgery”. For instance, small-town hospitals could “outsource” specialized or more experienced surgeons from elsewhere if necessary, and doctors in their residency can have remote supervision.

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