Awareness, perception, knowledge, and attitude toward robotic surgery in a general surgical outpatient clinic in Singapore, Asia.

Abstract

Background and Aim: Robotic surgery is an advancing technology and patients may not be fully aware of these advancements. Social media and advertisements may falsely skew patients' understanding. This study aims to seek awareness, understanding. and attitude toward robotic surgery in Singapore. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study of 472 patients and/or their relatives (response rate 94.4%) in a specialist outpatient clinic chosen through convenience sampling from May to July 2017 was performed. All healthcare workers or participants <21 years of age were excluded. A 19-point survey questionnaire including patient sociodemographics and awareness and attitudes toward robotic surgery was administered. Univariate and multivariate analysis was performed to assess participants' preference for robotic surgery. Results: =0.001). Conclusion: Understanding of robotic surgery was poor with several misconceptions. It is paramount to clarify these misconceptions to advocate for informed decision-making. Relevance for Patients: Measures need to be taken to ensure adequacy of pre-operative counseling in patients undergoing robotic surgery. Misconceptions on benefits and risks of robotic surgery should be cleared before decision on the surgical access and approach.