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Abstract Aim This study assesses preoperative perceptions and postoperative satisfaction amongst patients undergoing robotic-assisted colorectal surgery, in order to optimise preoperative information provision and improve patient experience. Method A structured quantitative and qualitative questionnaire was designed, to include questions on preoperative perceptions and prior knowledge about robotic surgery, and postoperative experiential feedback. All patients who had robotic colorectal resection at the host institution were included and had previously consented to potential inclusion in future research. Patients were contacted postoperatively. Quantitative outcomes were assessed using descriptive statistics and qualitative analysis was conducted using a thematic approach. Results Of 151 eligible participants, 108 provided complete responses. All underwent colorectal resection between November 2019 and August 2022.The mean±SD age of respondents was 63.1±15.2 years and 55% (n=59) were male. Prior knowledge varied; 73% (n=79) knew nothing about robotic surgery and 9% (n=10) reported apprehension, although others were intrigued (16%) or excited (14%). Four percent (n=4) of patients thought the robot was autonomous. After clinic review 81% (n=88) felt well informed about the robotic aspect. Positive feelings towards robotics were based on a perception of new technology as “better” and trust in surgeons’ advice. Post-surgery feedback was positive; 71% (n=77) were extremely satisfied and only 14% (n=15) had a neutral or negative experience. Ninety-three percent (n=100) would recommend robotic surgery to others. Conclusions Improved patient information leaflets may alleviate preoperative concerns about robotic surgery, but generally this innovation is well received by patients and may indicate that patients actively seek out this modality in future.
Anand et al. (Mon,) studied this question.