The general public's perception of robotic surgery - A scoping review.

Introduction: Robotic surgery is typically characterized by the telemanipulation of robotic arms controlled by a surgeon via a command system. Medical technology advancements have caused variations in how robotic surgery is conceptualised. It is important to ascertain the public's perception of robotic surgery, as this impacts decision making.

Methods: A study protocol was developed in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. All original research articles, abstracts, conference proceedings or grey literature were eligible. The Medline (Pubmed), Scopus, and Cochrane Databases, Google Scholar, white and green statement papers, and international guidelines were searched. A preliminary search identified key terms. Title and abstract screening was conducted. Full texts were appraised for eligibility. An inductive extraction process was utilized, grouping data into themes by content analysis, and developing a coding framework. Heterogeneity limited pooling of data and prevented aggregated data analysis. Therefore, NVivo software was used to augment this qualitative process and develop a meta-synthesis.

Results: The search yielded 8818 articles across the bibliographic databases. After inclusion of the grey literature 132 full text manuscripts were assessed. 35 of which were included. Three main themes were identified from the coding framework: understanding of robotic surgery, acceptance of robotic surgery, and perceptions of robotic surgery. Micro-construct subthemes included 'understanding of robotic autonomy, surgeon role, and outcomes', 'determinants of understanding', 'sources of information', 'intention to use', and 'determinants of acceptance'. Robotic surgery is perceived as a risky modality by the general public. They have a limited understanding of this surgical approach and the extent of autonomy a robotic system has. Sex, age, and residence are important factors effecting the degree of understanding and intention to undergo robotic surgery.

Conclusion: Robotic surgery is perceived as a risky procedure by the general public. They have limited understanding of the modality, and low rates of acceptance to undergo it fearing greater complications.