Robotic surgery systems, such as the da Vinci allow surgeons to more easily do less invasive surgeries, as well as reduce human error like shaking hands. A major hurdle for the da Vinci to overcome is the several million dollar price tag which accompanies it. News that child patient outcomes from robot assisted surgery may not be greater than outcomes from conventional surgery could mean less hospitals will choose to purchase such expensive equipment.

da Vinci Robot Performs Mock Surgery Image:Flickr/karmalaundry

Robotic surgery systems are commonly praised for reducing hospital stays for patients undergoing hysterectomies and prostate procedures. It is unlikely these procedures were the ones used in the medical studies, since such surgeries are generally only needed with older patients.

To illustrate the power and accuracy of robotic surgery systems, take a look at this video of a Japanese surgeon folding origami which is smaller than a penny.

[http://abcnews.go.com/Health/wireStory?id=9097053]

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