The ethics of robotic surgical systems is a conversation of informed consent

Abstract

Surgeons’ and patients’ fascination with and desire for innovation have driven robotic techniques to be fully integrated into the armamentarium of thoracic surgery. The ethical considerations for use of the robotic system are numerous; although not all are unique to robotic systems. Many of the ethical issues are summarized in a thorough and complete informed consent conversation. Outside of standard components to the informed consent conversation, surgeons utilizing the robotic system must cover common patient robotic misconceptions, the surgeon’s own robotic experience, how access to robotic systems may effect operation timing, and if the robotic system is used due to the surgeon’s preference.