Totally Robotic Versus Surgeon-Assisted Robotic Lung Resection For Early-Stage NSCLC
This research is looking into keyhole (robotic) surgery for early-stage lung cancer. This safe and effective method usually involves a robot guided by a surgeon, sometimes with a bedside surgeon assisting. This study compares that common method with a newer approach where the main surgeon uses robotic tools to do more of the operation independently. We want to understand if this 'totally robotic' way changes costs, how long people stay in hospital, or how well they recover. The study will involve assessing different robotic tools, like special staplers and energy devices, used in both surgical methods. Ultimately, the goal is to find the best and most cost-effective way to perform these important operations for people with lung cancer.
At a glance
What is this study about?
When someone has early-stage lung cancer, an operation to remove the affected part of the lung is often the best treatment. In recent years, a type of keyhole surgery using robots, called robotic-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (RTS), has become common. This method is known to be safe and works well. During this surgery, surgeons use a special robotic system, like the da Vinci system, to guide tiny instruments inside the body through small cuts, rather than making a large opening.
Usually, during this robotic surgery, the main surgeon controls the robot from a console, and a bedside surgeon might help with certain steps, like using handheld staplers to cut and seal tissues. This study is comparing this standard approach with a newer way where the main surgeon uses special robotic staplers and other tools to do almost all of the operation themselves, without as much direct help from a bedside surgeon.
The main aim of this study is to see if there are any differences between these two methods, particularly in terms of cost and how quickly patients recover. By comparing costs, hospital stay, and other important details, the researchers hope to figure out if one method is better or more efficient for patients and the healthcare system. The study will also look at different devices used for sealing blood vessels and tissues in both approaches.
Key takeaways
- This study compares two ways of doing robotic surgery for early lung cancer.
- It aims to find out if one method is more cost-effective or leads to better patient recovery.
- You would receive one of two established surgical procedures.
- No new medicines are involved; it's about surgical technique.
- Participation helps improve care for future lung cancer patients.
- Your suitability for robotic surgery must be confirmed by your surgeon.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, people need to be at least 18 years old and able to understand and speak English. They must have been diagnosed with early-stage non-small cell lung cancer, which is a common type of lung cancer. Importantly, their surgeon must agree that robotic keyhole surgery is a suitable treatment option for them.
However, some people won't be able to take part. This includes those who are taking blood-thinning medication that can't be stopped safely before surgery, or if they have problems with blood clotting. People with certain serious blood vessel diseases would also not be eligible. Lastly, if your surgeon doesn't think robotic keyhole surgery is the right treatment for you, then you wouldn't be able to join this particular study.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you at least 18 years old?
- Can you speak and understand English?
- Have you been diagnosed with early-stage lung cancer?
- Does your surgeon think robotic keyhole surgery is suitable for you?
- Are you able to safely stop any blood-thinning medicines before surgery?
- Do you *not* have any serious blood clotting problems or severe blood vessel diseases?
What does participation involve?
This study focuses on comparing two surgical methods for lung cancer. If you take part, you would receive either the standard robotic-assisted lung surgery with some surgeon assistance, or the updated 'totally robotic' version of the surgery, which uses different robotic tools for certain steps. The type of surgery you receive would be decided randomly, like flipping a coin. You wouldn't need extra visits or assessments beyond what is normally required for your lung cancer surgery and follow-up care. The total duration of your participation would cover your surgery and typical recovery period, allowing researchers to collect information on your hospital stay, recovery, and any costs involved. You won't be given any new or experimental medications as part of this study.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- St. Joseph's Healthcare HamiltonVerified postcodeHamilton, Canada
Common questions
What is 'keyhole' surgery?
It's a surgery using small cuts and special instruments, often guided by a robot, instead of a large open cut.
What does 'early-stage lung cancer' mean?
It means the cancer is found and treated before it has spread widely to other parts of the body.
Will I know which type of surgery I'm getting?
No, the type of surgery (standard or totally robotic) will be decided randomly, so neither you nor your doctors will choose.
Does this study involve new medicines?
No, this study is only comparing different ways of doing the surgery; it doesn't involve any new or experimental medications.
Why are you looking at costs?
Understanding the costs helps hospitals provide the best care efficiently and helps ensure resources are used wisely.
How to find out more
Yogita S Patel, BSc
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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