The role of the bedside assistant in robot-assisted surgery: A critical synthesis

Introduction: Robot-assisted surgery has grown exponentially since its inception and first approval in the United States in the year 2000. The surgeon operating with the assistance of the robot sits remotely to the patient and another practitioner assists at the bedside. The role of the bedside assistant and the training that is required to undertake this role are understudied topics. Aim: To explore the functions, training and professional development of the bedside assistant in robot-assisted surgery and propose the necessary foundations for the safe enactment of the role in the United Kingdom. Methods: Through critical interpretative synthesis, relevant literature was systematically searched and analysed to inform integration of evidence. Results: Seventy-three studies were retrieved from the literature, across several health care disciplines and surgical specialities. These were critically analysed to inform a theoretically sound account grounded on evidence. Conclusion: The role, functions and skills of the bedside assistant in robot-assisted surgery vary across contexts. These were analysed and critically synthetised to produce several keys to the success of bedside assistants in robot-assisted surgery in the context of the United Kingdom and of its national regulations.