Embracing industry in the development of robotic coronary bypass grafting-the sun rises in the East.

The introduction of robotic surgical devices nearly two decades ago led to a significant reduction in the invasiveness of cardiac procedures. The further worldwide implementation of robotic surgical devices in cardiac surgery, especially coronary artery bypass grafting and mitral valve repair or replacement, has, however, been stalled by numerous challenges. First, there is the high complexity of the procedures that involve a significant learning curve; second, there is the significant cost of robotic surgical devices.

Hybrid coronary revascularization versus percutaneous coronary intervention: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Hybrid coronary revascularization (HCR) is an emerging approach for multivessel coronary artery disease (MVD) which combines the excellent long-term outcomes of surgery with the early recovery and reduced short-term complications of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Here, we evaluated the effectiveness of HCR compared to PCI in patients with MVD.

Methods: A systematic database search in PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and CENTRAL/CCTR was conducted by June 2021.

Cardiothoracic robotic assisted surgery in times of COVID-19.

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic poses an immense threat to healthcare systems worldwide. At a time when elective surgeries are being suspended and questions are being raised about how the remaining procedures on COVID-19 positive patients can be performed safely, it is important to consider the potential role of robotic assisted surgery within the current pandemic. Recently, several robotic assisted surgery societies have issued their recommendations.