One year of experience working with the aid of a robotic assistant (the voice-controlled optic holder AESOP) in gynaecological endoscopic surgery

TLDR

The study compared robotic versus human laparoscopic camera control. AESOP, a voice‑controlled robotic laparoscope holder, was tested in 50 gynaecological endoscopic surgeries, with its timing compared to foot or hand‑controlled operations. Using AESOP eliminated the need for a camera holder, enabling two surgeons to perform complex laparoscopic procedures faster and more efficiently than with hand or foot control.

Abstract

The aim of the study was a comparison of robotic versus human laparoscopic camera control. Utilizing robotic technology a robot has been designed specifically for the purpose of holding and manoeuvring the laparoscope under the direct control of the surgeon. We tested AESOP (automated endoscopic system for optimal positioning) in 50 patients undergoing routine gynaecological endoscopic surgical procedures. The elimination of the camera holder allows two doctors to perform complex laparoscopic surgery faster than without the robotic arm. The timing of surgical procedures performed by surgeons using the voice control was compared to the timing of similar operations using the foot or hand control. The voice-controlled AESOP works more efficiently and faster than the hand or foot control.