Awareness and understanding of Robot-Assisted Surgery and its associated factors among the general adult population in Malaysia, a cross-sectional study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.71354/ijthpe.03.02.59Keywords:
Robot-Assisted Surgery, Awareness, Perception, Expertise in technology, Adults, MalaysiaAbstract
Background: Robot-Assisted Surgery (RAS) is a rapidly evolving field that integrated robotics into surgical procedures to enhance precision, minimize invasiveness, and improve patient outcomes. The study aimed to assess the awareness, knowledge, and understanding of Robot-Assisted Surgery among the general adult population in Malaysia.
Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted among Malaysian adults aged 18 years and above. Data was collected using a structured, self-administered online questionnaire disseminated via social media platforms. A sample size of 335 participants was determined and 337 valid responses were obtained. Data analysis was performed using SPSS Version 30 (trial version), and Chi-square tests applied to examine associations between categorical factors, with statistical significance set at p<0.05.
Results: A total of 337 valid responses were analyzed. The findings showed that 88.7% of respondents had heard of Robot-Assisted Surgery, primarily through social media (36.5%) and the internet (34.4%). However, misconceptions were prevalent, with 22.6% believing that robots performed surgeries autonomously while surgeons only supervised the surgeries. Awareness of the availability of Robot-Assisted Surgery in Malaysia was moderate, with 48.7% acknowledging its presence, while 41.2% remained uncertain. A significant proportion (62.3%) considered Robot-Assisted Surgery to be safe, yet 24.6% expressed uncertainty regarding its safety.
Conclusion: This study highlighted that there was still a substantial gap in understanding, with persistent misconceptions influencing the public perception. Addressing these knowledge gaps through targeted educational initiatives and public awareness campaigns was crucial for fostering informed decision-making and more acceptance towards adapting to Robot-Assisted Surgery in Malaysia.
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