Robotics in cardiac surgery: the Istanbul experience.

Background: Robots are sensor-based tools capable of performing precise, accurate and versatile actions. Initially designed to spare humans from risky tasks, robots have progressed into revolutionary tools for surgeons. Tele-operated robots, such as the da Vinci (Intuitive Surgical, Mountain View, CA), have allowed cardiac procedures to start benefiting from robotics as an enhancement to traditional minimally invasive surgery.

Methods: The aim of this text was to discuss our experience with the da Vinci system during a 12 month period in which 61 cardiac patients were operated on. There were 59 coronary bypass patients (CABG) and two atrial septal defect (ASD) closures.

Results: Two patients (3.3%) had to be converted to median sternotomy because of pleural adhesions. There were no procedure- or device-related complications.

Conclusions: Our experience suggests that robotics can be integrated into routine cardiac surgical practice. Systematic training, team dedication and proper patient selection are important factors that determine the success of a robotic surgery programme.