Publication Date
8-1-2023
Journal
Seminars in Plastic Surgery
DOI
10.1055/s-0043-1771301
PMID
37842543
PMCID
PMC10569862
PubMedCentral® Posted Date
7-30-2023
PubMedCentral® Full Text Version
Post-print
Published Open-Access
yes
Keywords
telesurgery, robotic surgery, telementoring, resource-limited settings
Abstract
Advanced surgical technologies consist of remote and virtual platforms that facilitate surgical care and education. It also includes the infrastructure necessary to utilize these platforms (e.g., internet access, robotic systems, and simulators). Given that 5 billion people lack access to safe and timely surgical care, the appeal of these technologies to the field of global surgery lies primarily in its ability to eliminate geographical barriers and address surgeon shortages. This article discusses the use of virtual and remote technologies in resource-limited settings, the potential applications of these technologies, the possible barriers to their integration, and the impact these technologies may have on access to surgical care and education. Specifically, it will explore how robotic surgery, telesurgery, virtual education platforms, and simulations have the potential to be instrumental in enhancing worldwide access to safe surgical care.