Medicolegal Review of Liability Risks for Gynecologists Stemming from Lack of Training in Robot-Assisted Surgery

The advances in robot-assisted surgery in gynecology evolved after most practicing gynecologists had already completed residency training. Postgraduate training in new technology for gynecologists in practice is limited. Therefore, gynecologists with insufficient training who perform robot-assisted surgery may potentially be at risk for liability. In addition to the traditional medical negligence claims, plaintiff attorneys are seeking causes of actions for lack of informed consent and negligent credentialing. Thus, it is essential that gynecologists be aware of these potential liability claims that arise in a robot-assisted malpractice suit. This commentary provides an overview of the current medicolegal liability risks originating from lack of training in robotic surgery and seeks to raise awareness of the implications involved in these claims. A better understanding of the doctrine of informed consent and seeking assistance of proctors or experienced co-surgeons early in robotics training are likely to reduce the liability risks for gynecologic surgeons. Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology (2011) 18, 512-515 (C) 2011 AAGL. All rights reserved.