HEART OF THE FUTURE: ROBOTIC INNOVATION IN CARDIOTHORACIC SURGERY 24110581@bmc.edu.sa

 

HEART OF THE FUTURE: ROBOTIC INNOVATION IN CARDIOTHORACIC SURGERY

1

Saudi Arabia

Poster with Discussion

Cardiothoracic surgery has traditionally been associated with high-risk, invasive procedures requiring prolonged recovery. Recent advancements in surgical robotics have introduced a paradigm shift, offering minimally invasive solutions with enhanced precision and improved patient outcomes. Yet, these technologies remain underrepresented in student-led clinical discussions. This study aims to explore cutting-edge robotic innovations in cardiothoracic surgery, analyse their impact on clinical outcomes, and highlight their future potential in reshaping surgical education and patient care.

A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines. PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were searched for studies (2018–2025) on robotic-assisted cardiothoracic procedures. Over 1,000 records were screened by two independent reviewers, with inclusion limited to clinical studies comparing robotic to open or minimally invasive approaches. Data on surgical precision, complications, recovery, and learning curves were extracted, and risk of bias was assessed using standard tools.

Robotic-assisted cardiothoracic surgery consistently showed reductions in postoperative complications, blood loss, and hospital stay duration compared to open surgery. Enhanced 3D visualisation and fine motor control allowed for sub-millimetre precision, especially in valve repairs. These techniques are becoming increasingly common in specialised centres, with hybrid robotic-endoscopic approaches emerging as the next frontier.

Robotic technology is revolutionising cardiothoracic surgery by bridging the gap between precision and patient safety. As these systems become more accessible and refined, their integration into surgical curricula and clinical settings is essential. Highlighting such advancements encourages early engagement from aspiring clinicians and fosters innovation-driven learning in cardiovascular medicine.