Renuka Kannappan
Papers
1
Total Citations
5
H-Index
1
About
Dr. Renuka Kannappan is a pioneering researcher in surgical ergonomics and team dynamics, with a focused expertise in evaluating non-technical skills (NTS) within robot-assisted surgery. Her landmark 2019 study, which has garnered 5 citations, represents a foundational contribution to understanding how surgeon behaviors—beyond technical proficiency—influence operating room (OR) outcomes. By meticulously analyzing video recordings of 20 robot-assisted radical prostatectomies performed by three surgeons, Kannappan demonstrated that NTS such as communication, leadership, and situational awareness directly correlate with team performance, workload distribution, and clinical results. This work bridges a critical gap between human factors engineering and surgical practice, offering evidence-based insights for training programs aimed at reducing errors and improving patient safety. Her research is particularly notable for its methodological rigor, employing trained observers to quantify subtle interpersonal dynamics in high-stakes environments. Kannappan’s contributions are essential for advancing robotic surgery protocols, emphasizing that technical skill alone is insufficient—effective teamwork is equally vital. Her findings continue to inform curriculum design for surgical residents and shape best practices in minimally invasive procedures.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1