Understanding the risks and benefits of robotic surgery

Rapid Adoption of Robotic Surgery: Risks, Benefits, and Unintended Consequences

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11007249

This study looks at how often robotic surgery is being used for common operations like gallbladder removal and hernia repairs, checking how well it works and how much it costs, so patients can better understand their options.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-11007249 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the rapid increase in robotic surgery in the U.S., focusing on its use for common procedures like gallbladder removal and hernia repairs. By analyzing Medicare and private insurance claims data, the study aims to assess the real-world outcomes and costs associated with robotic surgery. It seeks to address the gap in evidence regarding the effectiveness and safety of these surgical techniques, particularly in the context of their growing adoption. The research will also explore variations in how robotic surgery is adopted across different regions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include patients undergoing common surgical procedures such as gallbladder removal, hernia repairs, or surgeries for colon cancer.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing robotic surgery or those with conditions not addressed by the study may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide patients with clearer insights into the risks and benefits of robotic surgery, leading to more informed decision-making.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown mixed results regarding robotic surgery, indicating a need for comprehensive studies like this one to better understand its implications.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions cancer in the coloncancer surgeryColon Cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.