Current status of robot-assisted urologic surgery in Saudi Arabia: Trends and opinions from an Internet-based survey

OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study is to assess the current status of urologic robot-assisted surgery (RAS) in Saudi Arabia and evaluate perceptions of its importance and utility. METHODS: A 59-item questionnaire was E-mailed to urologists and trainees in Saudi Arabia to assess the demographics and individual and institutional surgical practices of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) with a focus on RAS and urologic subtypes. RESULTS: Ninety-five surveys were completed. Nearly 53%, 46%, and 21% of respondents were formally trained in laparoscopic surgery, MIS, and RAS, respectively. Forty percent had used a robot console during training. Nearly 72% of participants felt that RAS training should be included to accomplish their career goals and stated that it would strengthen the department academically and financially. The absence of a robotic system (45%) and administrative disinterest with lack of support (39%) were the most common deterrents. Robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP), robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC), and robot-assisted radical nephrectomy (RARN) were regarded as the gold standard for 34%, 23%, and 17% of respondents, respectively. Respondents would recommend RARP (74%), RARC (50%), and RARN (57%) for themselves or their family. The greatest perceived benefits of RAS were its ease of use and improvement in the patient's quality of life. CONCLUSION: Urologists in Saudi Arabia recognize the superiority of RAS over traditional surgical methods but lack exposure, training, and access to RAS. This survey reveals increasing acceptance of RAS and willingness to incorporate the technology into practice.