Disparities in robot utilization in colorectal surgery: the widening gap - Report - MDSpire

Disparities in robot utilization in colorectal surgery: the widening gap

  • By

  • Andrew E. Donaldson

  • Sarah B. Jochum

  • Jimmie Knight

  • Joshua M. Underhill

  • Chassidy Grimes

  • Laura A. DeCesare

  • Brendan O’Donnell

  • Ethan M. Ritz

  • Henry R. Govekar

  • Anuradha R. Bhama

  • Erin King-Mullins

  • Dana M. Hayden

  • July 8, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: Inequities in the Adoption of Robotic Techniques in Colorectal Surgery

Background

Robotic-assisted surgery has shown promise in colorectal procedures. However, the adoption of robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) has not been uniform across different patient demographics.

Data Highlights

No numerical data was provided in the source material.

Key Findings

  • Robotic surgery has seen increased adoption in colorectal surgery since the early 2000s.
  • Racial disparities exist in access to minimally invasive surgery, with Black patients receiving RAS less frequently than White patients.
  • Patients with private insurance are more likely to receive robotic surgery compared to those with public insurance.
  • Postoperative outcomes for robotic surgery are generally equivalent to those of laparoscopic surgery.
  • Disparities in access to robotic surgery may exist.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare providers should be aware of the disparities in access to robotic-assisted surgery and consider these factors when discussing surgical options with patients. Addressing these inequities may improve overall patient outcomes and access to advanced surgical techniques.

Conclusion

The findings indicate disparities in the adoption of robotic techniques in colorectal surgery.

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  9. Effect of Robotic-Assisted vs Conventional Laparoscopic Surgery on Risk of Conversion to Open Laparotomy Among Patients Undergoing Resection for Rectal Cancer: The ROLARR Randomized Clinical Trial - PMC
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