Early Surgeon Experience With Robotic-Assisted Inguinal Hernia Repair

PROGRESS: A PROspective Evaluation of the Early surGeon expeRiencE With Robotic-aSSisted (RA) Inguinal Hernia Repair (IHR)

The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the progression of surgeon efficiency and proficiency of traditionally open or laparoscopic surgeons performing robotic-assisted inguinal hernia repair throughout their learning curve.

This is a prospective, multi-center, observational pilot study evaluating surgeon efficiency and proficiency of traditionally open or laparoscopic surgeons performing robotic-assisted inguinal hernia repair. The study will focus on surgeon intraoperative efficiency and technical performance outcomes as well as conversions, intraoperative complications, and mental and cognitive workload. Surgeon subjects will be assessed for technical proficiency through a study specific technical proficiency form and the GEARS scale by independent surgeons.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Signed and dated informed consent by adult surgeon subject
2. Practicing general surgeon with no or limited robotic assisted experience
3. Full access to the da Vinci surgical system at hospital and ability to perform robotic cases as needed
4. Willingness to participate in all aspects of the study

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Condition(s) that, in the opinion of the investigator, may prevent completion of the study or protocol requirements