da Vinci Surgical Robot—Update
The da Vinci surgical robot, installed in more than 2,000 hospitals across the country, has come under increased FDA scrutiny after a 34 percent increase in the risk of incidents—some of which were fatal—was reported from 2011 to 2012. During that period, the number of da Vinci procedures in the United States increased 26 percent.
The increasing popularity of the da Vinci robot has raised questions about its benefits, while several studies have failed to prove its safety and efficiency. Furthermore, critics argue that hospitals are allowing surgeons without proper experience to perform procedures using the robot. Since its approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2000, limited training and credentialing opportunities are available to doctors.
For more information on all the torts we’re tracking, visit the Mass Torts Matrix.
