James F. Donovan
Papers
2
Total Citations
88
H-Index
2
About
James F. Donovan is a leading researcher in surgical ergonomics and human factors, with a focus on how novice operators adapt to minimally invasive surgical technologies. His work bridges the gap between surgical training and cognitive psychology, investigating the mental workload, stress, and performance of trainees using laparoscopic and robotic platforms like the da Vinci® Surgical System. Donovan’s most-cited study (78 citations) reveals that novice surgeons experience high cognitive strain during laparoscopic procedures, but robotic interfaces can reduce workload and improve user comfort—a finding that has influenced surgical training curricula and interface design. His earlier work (10 citations) further demonstrated that first-year medical students exhibit distinct coping profiles and performance variability when switching between endoscopic and robot-assisted techniques, highlighting the need for tailored training protocols. By quantifying stress and workload in simulated surgical environments, Donovan has provided critical insights into optimizing human–machine interaction in the operating room. His research is essential reading for medical educators, human factors engineers, and anyone interested in making surgery safer and more accessible through technology.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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