The Role of a Bedside Assistant

Abstract

Since the introduction of robotic-assisted techniques for colon and rectal surgery in 2002, the role of the first assistant has evolved to include increased responsibility. Typically in conventional laparoscopic surgery, the first assistant provides technical assistance (i.e., camera viewing, suctioning, and retraction). During robotic surgery, the operating surgeon is emerged in the performance of surgery at the console, leaving the bedside assistant responsible for continued support with robotic and laparoscopic instrumentation and more importantly responsible for the patient’s safety. We aim to characterize the role of the bedside assistant and how to optimize efficiency during surgery.