The Robotic Patient-Side Assistant

A team-based approach in the robotic operating room is critical for success and the patient-side first assistant is central to this team. A well-trained assistant is necessary to maximize efficiency and minimize complications. The assistant needs to understand and manage a multitude of issues including the plethora of equipment, safe patient positioning, gaining safe access into the abdomen, optimal port placement, efficient robot docking, managing insufflation and optimizing the robotic performance during the case. The assistant needs to be facile, ambidextrous laparoscopist and an effective communicator with the console surgeon and the rest of the team. An assistant who can troubleshoot effectively and quickly respond to problems and complications can make a major difference in the outcome of the operation. We review all salient aspects of the role and considerations of an effective and experienced patient-side assistant. Although the job is often thankless and underappreciated, the patient-side assistant is a key member of the robotics team and crucial for successful outcomes.