Current issues and future considerations for the wider implementation of robotic-assisted surgery: a qualitative study

The IDEAL framework for surgical robotics: development, comparative evaluation and long-term monitoring

The next generation of surgical robotics is poised to disrupt healthcare systems worldwide, requiring new frameworks for evaluation. However, evaluation during a surgical robot's development is challenging due to their complex evolving nature, potential for wider system disruption and integration with complementary technologies like artificial intelligence. Comparative clinical studies require attention to intervention context, learning curves and standardized outcomes. Long-term monitoring needs to transition toward collaborative, transparent and inclusive consortiums for real-world data collection. Here, the Idea, Development, Exploration, Assessment and Long-term monitoring (IDEAL) Robotics Colloquium proposes recommendations for evaluation during development, comparative study and clinical monitoring of surgical robots-providing practical recommendations for developers, clinicians, patients and healthcare systems. Multiple perspectives are considered, including economics, surgical training, human factors, ethics, patient perspectives and sustainability. Further work is needed on standardized metrics, health economic assessment models and global applicability of recommendations.

Tracing the evolution of robotic-assisted total knee arthroplasty: a bibliometric analysis of the top 100 highly cited articles

Robotic-assisted surgical systems hold promise in enhancing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) outcomes and patients' quality of life. This study aims to comprehensively analyze the literature on robot-assisted total knee arthroplasty (r-TKA), providing insights into its current development, clinical application, and research trends. A systematic search was conducted in the Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC) to identify relevant articles. Data were collected from the top 100 highly cited articles. Article evidence levels were assessed following established guidelines. Statistical analyses and visualizations were performed to reveal publication trends, citations, research hotspots, and collaborative networks. The analysis covered 100 highly cited articles meeting the research criteria, with a focus on the last five years. The United States emerged as a major contributor, with most publications and citations in the Journal of Knee Surgery and Knee Surgery Sports Traumatology Arthroscopy. Research priorities revolved around clinical outcomes, accuracy, and alignment of r-TKA. Notably, higher evidence levels correlated with more citations, indicating greater attention. Interest in and research on r-TKA is steadily increasing, with a few countries at the forefront of these endeavors. While numerous studies have already reported short- to medium-term follow-up results, it is crucial to conduct longer-term investigations to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the clinical benefits that r-TKA offers compared to conventional techniques. Through ongoing research and a greater embrace of robotic technology, we can continue to improve the quality of life for patients undergoing knee arthroplasty.