Carlton C. Barnett

Rocky Mountain MS Center, University of Colorado Denver

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Carlton C. Barnett is a surgeon-researcher whose work has significantly advanced the safety of robotic surgery. His primary research focus is the characterization and mitigation of stray energy transfer during minimally invasive procedures, a critical but often overlooked hazard. Barnett’s major contributions include pioneering studies that quantify monopolar stray energy in robotic systems, demonstrating how unintended electrical current can cause thermal injury to adjacent tissues. His 2020 paper, “Monopolar stray energy in robotic surgery,” has garnered 8 citations, establishing a foundational reference for this emerging safety concern. He further explored this phenomenon in single-incision robotic surgery, showing that even in confined surgical fields, stray energy remains a risk. Barnett’s work is notable for translating complex electrosurgical physics into practical, actionable guidelines for operating room teams. By highlighting these hidden dangers, he has helped shape best practices for instrument insulation and energy delivery, ultimately improving patient outcomes. His research is essential reading for any surgeon or engineer seeking to understand the nuances of energy-based devices in robotic platforms.