New technologies for future of surgery in Ireland: An RCSI working Group report 2024

Introduction: Surgery is a cognitive discipline whose practitioners characteristically use technology during operations for patients. With accelerating technological innovation throughout society and healthcare, we sought to develop a shared position for Irish surgery via a commissioned work programme by the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland.

Methods: Using Stanford design principles, representative clinical specialty and academic leads and higher trainee representatives across 15 specialties were surveyed regarding sentiments, perspectives and concerns regarding now and near future technology in clinical practice, career considerations and training/education. Selected participants proceeded to semi-structured interview as deeper dive including use-case exemplar development with narrative thematic analysis.

Results: New technologies matter to surgeons and surgical practice for patients as evidenced by the high level of engagement and rich perspectives provided. However there is concern, particularly among academic groups, that Irish Surgery could be better positioned for the opportunities inherent in new technologies and better prepared strategically regarding stakeholder (surgical units, healthcare institutions, universities and especially management, health service executive and government) alignment. Investment levels are felt to be insufficient to maximally leverage new technology effectively including training investment where new ways of learning are needed as technologies such as artificial intelligence and data and analytics become more important to surgical practice beyond the current prioritisation of robotics and biomaterials.

Conclusion: While there is high engagement, clear ambition and confidence with role of new technologies in the now and near future of Irish Surgery, there is opportunity to demonstrate leadership and synergise stake holders for better healthcare.