Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Sarah Watanaskul is a pioneering colorectal surgeon whose research centers on advancing minimally invasive techniques for rectal surgery, with a particular focus on robotic platforms. Her major contributions lie in refining transanal excision methods for benign and early malignant rectal lesions, systematically comparing robotic transanal minimally invasive surgery (R-TAMIS) against traditional approaches like TEM and TAMIS. Her 2022 expert perspective on robotic transanal excision, cited 14 times, established key ergonomic and technical advantages of robotic systems in confined pelvic spaces. In a 2022 case series (8 citations), she provided critical comparative data demonstrating R-TAMIS as a superior alternative for lesions not amenable to open excision. Beyond technical innovation, Watanaskul has pioneered educational approaches to surgical training, notably her 2023 work using laparoscopy to increase medical students' engagement with robotic procedures. She has also contributed to the literature on robotic repair of perineal hernias, a rare but challenging complication following abdominoperineal resection. Her work bridges the gap between established minimally invasive techniques and emerging robotic technologies, shaping both clinical practice and surgical education.