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Knowledge, attitude, and perception of robotic-assisted surgery among the general population in Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional study

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Abstract

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has revolutionized surgical practices, with robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) significantly advancing. However, the understanding and acceptance of RAS vary, impacting its widespread adoption. This study aims to assess Saudi Arabians’ attitudes and comprehension of RAS, which is crucial for promoting its integration into surgical procedures. A cross-sectional study was conducted in various Saudi Arabian cities. A total of 1449 participants were included, while participants with cognitive issues were excluded. Demographic information, knowledge, technology experience, attitudes, and perceptions about RAS were collected using an online self-administered questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Of the participants, 51.1% demonstrated awareness of RAS, mainly through social media (36.9%). Factors influencing awareness included gender, education, income, occupation, computer literacy, and technology comfort. Gender disparities were evident in attitudes and perceptions toward RAS. Concerns about RAS included robot malfunction (62.0%), surgical errors (45.4%), and surgeon competency (44.7%). 36.4% of the participants believe RAS is faster, 29.9% believe RAS is less painful, and 25.3% believe RAS has fewer complications. Positive perceptions encompassed the belief that robot-using surgeons are more skilled (44.5%) and hospitals offering RAS are better (54.3%). Notably, 47.7% expressed willingness to consider RAS as a treatment option. The study underscores the significance of promoting awareness and informed decisions to ensure the successful integration of RAS in surgical practices. Addressing concerns and misconceptions and enhancing public comprehension are pivotal for facilitating informed decision-making and fostering RAS acceptance within Saudi Arabia’s surgical landscape.

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Funding

This research did not receive any specific grant or external funding.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. General Surgery Department, Faculty of Medicine, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia

    Abdulaziz A. Arishi, Ibrahim A. Hakami, Hassan N. Mashbari, Othamn Iskander & Khalid Alyahyawi

  2. Faculty of Medicine, Jazan University, 45142, Jazan, Saudi Arabia

    Alhassan H. Hobani, Hafiz I. Al-Musawa, Rana I. Abuhadi, Atheer H. Maslouf, Mohammed H. Matari & Hakema T. Albrahim

  3. Faculty of Medicine, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

    Maram A. Algarni

Authors
  1. Abdulaziz A. Arishi
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  2. Ibrahim A. Hakami
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  3. Hassan N. Mashbari
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  4. Alhassan H. Hobani
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  5. Hafiz I. Al-Musawa
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  6. Rana I. Abuhadi
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  7. Atheer H. Maslouf
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  8. Mohammed H. Matari
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  9. Hakema T. Albrahim
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  10. Maram A. Algarni
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  11. Othamn Iskander
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  12. Khalid Alyahyawi
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Contributions

A.H.H designed the methodology; A.H.H, H.I.Al-M, and R.I.A involved in formal analysis; A.H.M and M.H.M investigated the data; H.T.A collected the resources; M.A.A, H.N.M, and I.A.H curated the data; H.N.M and A.H.H wrote the original draft; and A.A.A wrote, reviewed, and edited the manuscript. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

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Correspondence to Abdulaziz A. Arishi.

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Arishi, A.A., Hakami, I.A., Mashbari, H.N. et al. Knowledge, attitude, and perception of robotic-assisted surgery among the general population in Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional study. J Robotic Surg 18, 196 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11701-024-01892-z

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