Abstract
The adoption of robotics in cardiac surgery is increasing rapidly [1]. The unparalleled range of motion and precision combined with 3-dimensional (3D) vision in a minimally invasive surgical setting facilitates complex cardiosurgical procedures without compromising on the surgical techniques utilized.
This unique combination of innovative characteristics holds the promise to improve outcome in various groups of patients. Until the recent surge in robotic cases, the penetrance of robotics in cardiac surgery has been low for decades, likely related to the high initial costs in combination with a lack of structured training and mentoring programs.
Furthermore, the new European Medical Device Regulation may hamper further adoption of this technique because it seems to lead to the paradoxical withdrawal of robotic tools from the market rather than the anticipated improvement in quality.