Robotic surgery: the computer-enhanced control of surgical instruments.

Robotic procedures are still in a developmental stage. Studies have shown that many operations can be performed safely with computer-enhanced telemanipulators, but distinct advantages of robotic procedures have not been established. Before third-party payors begin paying a premium for the use of a robot, costs will need to decrease or outcomes will need to be sufficiently better. Manufacturers of robotic surgery systems are marketing directly to consumers and promoting their systems to hospitals based on the number of patients that can be attracted by such programs. Only the acceptance of robotics into mainstream surgical practice, however, will prove it to be more than just a niche technology.