Analysis of KangDuo-SR-1500 and KangDuo-SR-2000 robotic partial nephrectomy from an operative and ergonomic perspective: a prospective controlled study in porcine models

Abstract

The objective of this study is to explore the safety and effectiveness of two new models of KangDuo surgical robots for partial nephrectomy in porcine models, and evaluate the ergonomic characteristics from both subjective and objective perspectives. Twelve porcine models were equally divided for KD-SR-1500 (three-arm) and KD-SR-2000 (four-arm). The perioperative outcomes, and physical and mental workload of the surgeon were compared. Physical workload was evaluated with surface electromyography. Mental workload was evaluated with NASA-TLX. All surgeries were performed successfully. There were no differences in perioperative variables (p > 0.05). There were no perioperative complications. The mental workload in both groups was at a low level. KD-SR-2000 showed advantages in physical workload (p < 0.01). KD-SR-1500 and KD-SR-2000 are technically feasible, valid, and safe for RAPN in porcine models. KD-SR-2000 had ergonomic advantages over KD-SR-1500.

Keywords: Ergonomics; Novel surgical robot; Partial nephrectomy; Porcine models; Robotic surgery.