Understanding the Cureus Study on Robotic Surgery Awareness in the UAE
The latest research published in Cureus has shed light on a critical gap in public understanding of robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) among adults in the United Arab Emirates. Titled 'Assessment of Knowledge, Awareness, and Perceptions of Robotic-Assisted Surgery Among the Adult Population in the United Arab Emirates,' this cross-sectional study highlights how limited awareness could hinder the broader adoption of this transformative technology in UAE healthcare. Conducted between September 2021 and March 2023, the research involved 433 participants and was approved by the University of Sharjah Research Ethics Committee, underscoring the role of academic institutions in driving such inquiries.
Robotic-assisted surgery represents a significant advancement where surgeons control precise robotic arms via a console, enhancing dexterity, visualization, and control during minimally invasive procedures. In the UAE, where healthcare innovation is a national priority, understanding public sentiment is vital for integrating RAS into routine care. This study, presented at events like the American University in the Emirates student research competition, signals growing interest among UAE higher education circles in health technology research.
Defining Robotic-Assisted Surgery: Technology and Process
Robotic-assisted surgery, often referred to as RAS, involves systems like the da Vinci Surgical System, where a surgeon sits at a console equipped with hand controls and a 3D high-definition viewer. The robotic arms, fitted with tiny instruments and cameras, mimic the surgeon's movements with greater precision and range than human hands alone. The process typically unfolds in steps: preoperative planning with imaging, patient positioning under general anesthesia, console docking of the robot, incision for port placement, surgery execution, and undocking followed by closure.
In the UAE context, RAS has gained traction in specialties such as urology, gynecology, and general surgery. Hospitals like Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi and American Hospital Dubai have pioneered programs, performing thousands of procedures annually. This technology reduces blood loss, shortens recovery times, and minimizes scarring, but its success hinges on public trust and awareness.
Study Methodology: A Robust Cross-Sectional Approach
Researchers employed convenience sampling via social media platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, and Telegram to reach UAE residents aged 18 and older. A 20-item questionnaire, adapted from prior validated tools and available in Arabic and English, assessed demographics, awareness (six items), and perceptions (seven Likert-scale items). With a Cronbach's alpha of 0.753 for reliability, responses from 433 valid participants were analyzed using SPSS, employing chi-square tests and odds ratios to uncover associations.
This method ensured broad representation, though self-selection via online recruitment may skew toward younger, tech-savvy groups. The study's academic ties, including ethics clearance from University of Sharjah, exemplify how UAE universities contribute to evidence-based health policy.
Demographic Profile of Participants
The sample reflected UAE's diverse population: 59.6% female, median age 23 years (60.6% aged 18-30), 46.2% Emirati, 45.5% with bachelor's degrees, 48% students, and 61.2% in non-medical occupations. This youthful, educated cohort provides a snapshot of emerging healthcare consumers, many affiliated with higher education.
- Age distribution: 60.6% 18-30 years
- Nationality: 46.2% Emirati, rest expatriates
- Education: 45.5% bachelor's, higher levels linked to better awareness
- Occupation: 48% students, highlighting youth perspectives
Alarming Low Awareness Levels Uncovered
A staggering 81.1% of respondents exhibited inadequate awareness of RAS, with only 18.9% demonstrating adequate knowledge. Just 27.5% correctly identified that RAS involves a surgeon operating from a console, debunking myths of fully autonomous robots.
Awareness varied significantly: medical field workers showed 25.4% adequate awareness versus 15.8% in non-medical roles (p=0.028). Postgraduate-educated participants reached 30.4% awareness compared to 16.8% for bachelor's holders (p=0.034).
Knowledge Gaps and Common Misconceptions
Participants recognized potential benefits like improved precision (71.3%), shorter recovery (68.1%), reduced errors (67.9%), and addressing surgeon shortages (63.3%). However, misconceptions persisted around disadvantages: 59.1% feared increased pain, 58.4% higher complications, and 51.7% inaccuracy.
These gaps underscore the need for educational interventions. In higher education, integrating RAS modules into medical curricula at institutions like UAE University or Gulf Medical University could equip future professionals to educate patients effectively.
Perceptions and Willingness to Undergo RAS
Attitudes were mixed: 47.6% highly positive (willing to undergo), 34.2% moderate (unsure), 18.3% negative. Crucially, those with adequate knowledge were 14.5 times more likely to consider RAS (p<0.001). Recommendation rates stood at 37.2% yes, 29.1% no, 33.7% unsure.
| Perception Category | Agreement (%) |
|---|---|
| Improved Precision | 71.3 |
| Shorter Recovery | 68.1 |
| Reduced Errors | 67.9 |
| Higher Complications | 58.4 |
For medical students eyeing careers, platforms like higher ed jobs offer opportunities in UAE's advancing health sector.
Influential Factors: Education, Occupation, Tech Literacy
Technology proficiency emerged as key: proficient users were 2.5 times more likely to have adequate knowledge (p=0.003). Postgraduate education doubled odds (OR=2.174), emphasizing higher learning's role.
- Medical occupation: OR=0.552 for adequate awareness
- Postgraduate vs Bachelor's: OR=2.174
- Tech proficient vs Basic: Adjusted OR=2.526
UAE universities can leverage this by embedding tech-health literacy in programs, fostering informed graduates.
Read the full Cureus studyContrasting with Healthcare Experts' Views
A prior study from Canadian University Dubai found 88% of UAE healthcare experts view RAS favorably, with 94% believing it boosts hospital reputation. Challenges like cost (59%) and training shortages persist, aligning with public concerns but highlighting a perception divide.
This gap calls for university-led bridges, such as simulation training at American Hospital Dubai's hub, accessible to med students.
UAE's Growing Robotic Surgery Ecosystem
The UAE leads regionally, with systems at Fakeeh University Hospital, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City offering courses, and new da Vinci 5 at King's College Hospital Dubai. Market projections estimate $500 million by 2030, driven by minimally invasive demand.
University affiliations, like UAEU's minimally invasive research, position academia centrally. Explore UAE academic opportunities for health innovators.
Higher Education's Pivotal Role in Awareness Building
UAE universities like University of Sharjah and American University in the Emirates are at the forefront, hosting research competitions and ethics oversight. Integrating RAS simulation labs, as at MBZUAI for AI-robotics, prepares students.
Recommendations include curricula reforms, public outreach via student campaigns, and partnerships with hospitals. For aspiring educators and researchers, university jobs abound.
Photo by Lena Bochanova on Unsplash
Future Outlook: Bridging Gaps for Adoption
Targeted campaigns via social media, school programs, and collaborations promise to elevate awareness. As UAE invests in health tech, educated publics will drive demand, benefiting patients and economy.
Stakeholders should prioritize training: universities develop programs, hospitals expand access. Actionable steps include tech literacy workshops and RAS demos.
Check higher ed career advice for paths in medical innovation, rate my professor for top mentors, and higher-ed-jobs for roles.
