Robotic Surgery: Education, Application, Clinical Performance, and Patient Outcome

Robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) has become a transformative force in modern medicine, offering enhanced three-dimensional visualization, superior dexterity, and improved ergonomics. These technological advancements are particularly relevant to the field of tissue reconstruction and regeneration, where precision and minimal tissue trauma are paramount. This chapter provides a surgeon’s perspective on the current landscape of robotic surgery, beginning with the foundational elements of surgeon education. It examines the evolution of standardized training curricula, the critical role of simulation in skill acquisition, and the complexities of the learning curve and credentialing. The chapter then appraises the clinical performance of RAS across various specialties—including orthopedics, plastic and reconstructive surgery, urology, and gynecology—with a specific focus on its application in soft and hard tissue repair. Clinical outcomes are compared against conventional open and laparoscopic techniques, incorporating patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). Finally, the chapter looks to the future, exploring the next generation of robotic systems, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and mixed reality (MR) in surgical planning and execution, and the significant ethical, legal, and socioeconomic challenges that must be navigated for responsible innovation and equitable adoption.