Robotics

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Is Robotics Right?
Braden Turman, 7772848, MIS-2000-A02

The world is at a historical turning point in the industry of robotic technology. Over the last
decade, robotic machines have become smarter, while using cutting-edge technology to increase
accuracy and reduce the effects of human error. Robotic surgery may be misleading to some, as
there is no autonomy involved. The term is now widely used to describe laparoscopic surgery
assisted by an electromechanical device that is operated by a surgeon through a console (Spitz,
S.,).
Laparoscopic surgery is a rising trend used in hospitals to assist day-to-day surgeries. The
robotic arms have a 360-degree axis, which helps improves safety, efficiently and in return
successful surgeries. Robotic surgery was invented to over come the borders that doctors have to
decrease the limitations of modern medical procedures.
Robotic-Assisted technology would be able to reduce human error while potentially saving
Hospitals millions of dollars. Robotic surgery not only gives the surgeon better control
throughout the surgery, but it also reduces exhaustion as surgeons do not need to stand
throughout the surgery. The robot reduces human hand tremors by correcting it through the
computers software. Although trusting technology with your life may be hard for some to
overcome, it may eventually become the norm. Another rising trend is the slow and controlled
release of single-site hysterectomy technology. The slow release of this robotic technology most
likely shows that the company is not completely confident with their product. As the technology
improves, it has a great chance of market penetration. As the rise of successful robotic surgery
increases, so will the demand. Another future trend caused by this technology is the increase in
careers for nurses and doctors. As learning how to use this technology will create a steep learning
curve, it will also create a high demand for jobs, and training.
Robotic surgery may take over surgeons in the next decade, or two. The transition of robots
into Hospitals may have to wait until the technology used in the robotic arms becomes relatively
cheaper. The cost will be a stand-alone determinant for hospitals to adapt to this new technology.
Robotic surgical systems have high fixed costs, with prices ranging from $1 million to $2.5
million for each unit (Barbash, G.,). While technology does normally decline in price, relative to
time, these robotic hands will not reach a median price range, where the distributors can start to
attract the average hospital for another decade or two. As more efficient means of production and
distribution will become available, these robotic arms will be seen in more hospitals.
As robotic surgery adapts to the socio-culture we live in, these machines will become
more and more popular. As the technology increases surgeons perception, it will also increase
their acceptance of these machines. Robotic surgery will not only help healthcare providers
however it will also decrease the barriers of use of robotics in surgical practices. The technology
used in surgery will create a need for universities to start teaching, and training this medical
practice.

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References

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Richmon, J. D., Quon, H., & Gourin, C. G. (2014). The effect of transoral robotic surgery on
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Social Informatics: Robotic Surgery. (2011, November 9). Retrieved from
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