Assessment of knowledge and awareness regarding Robotics-Assisted Surgery (RAS) among Saudi population: A cross sectional study

Abstract

Introduction: An increasing number of surgeries are being performed with the assistance of robots and this new technology necessitates a strong commitment on the part of healthcare providers and patients alike. The purpose of this study was to investigate the public's awareness, knowledge and perceptions of Robotic-Assisted Surgery (RAS) in Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: An online pretested questionnaire was used to collect responses from participants from different provinces of Saudi Arabia. Participants' self-reported knowledge and perceptions were recorded and based on the correct responses, knowledge levels were calculated. Data were analyzed using appropriate statistical tests by an independent biostatistician. Results: The knowledge level regarding RAS was found to be poor in the majority of the participants (88.8%), although 74.5% had heard about RAS. Only 33.5% knew that RAS is available in Saudi Arabia and 44.8% knew that it is similar to Laparoscopic or minimally invasive surgery. Knowledge level was significantly higher among participants with higher educational qualifications (p<0.05). About 41.7% believed that robots could be so accurate they would help the surgeon do a better job and approximately 9.3% had the view that robotic surgeons are less skilled than non-robotic surgeons. Conclusion: Knowledge and perceptions about RAS are limited among the public in Saudi Arabia. Efforts should be made to increase awareness by utilizing various virtual media platforms.