Researchers from Columbia University have just published a new study in Obstetrics and Gynecology. The study looked at more that 87,000 robot-assisted procedures (removal of ovaries and removal of ovarian cysts) between 2009-2012 noting that rate of robot assisted surgeries increased over that time as did inoperative complications. The study also found the robotic assisted surgeries more expensive, averaging almost double that cost conventional cystectomy and oophorectomy procedures
“For benign gynecologic conditions, robot-assisted surgery involves more complications during surgery and may be significantly more expensive than conventional laparoscopic surgery.” ~ Columbia University Medical Center Research Study
The findings are yet another flag that has been raised when looking at the added costs and risks associated. While this still a relatively new front for medicine, the study yet again raises concerns about when the additional costs and risks are warranted over conventional methods and how these questions are currently not being adequately addressed.
Further reading:
http://newsroom.cumc.columbia.edu/blog/2014/10/08/robotic-surgery-complications-higher-expense-conditions/
http://journals.lww.com/greenjournal/Abstract/publishahead/Comparative_Effectiveness_of_Robotically_Assisted.99302.aspx
http://online.wsj.com/articles/robotic-surgery-brings-higher-costs-more-complications-study-shows-1412715786
