Abstract Introduction A single surgeon approach to laparoscopic peritoneal dialysis catheter insertion can offer improved efficiency to surgical lists as well as freeing up surgeons to complete other operations or ward jobs. Simple, low risk laparoscopic procedures which can be completed quickly with the aid of a robotic assistant can help hospitals improve efficiency of surgical departments. This study aims to assess the learning curve of a single surgeon approach using the Freehand robotic assistant in peritoneal dialysis catheter insertion. Method Seventy-two cases were analysed over a period of three years from 2020-2023, operations involving the Freehand robotic assistant were performed by a single consultant surgeon. The duration of the procedure was one of the main factors evaluated for assessing learning curve. Other factors considered were re-do procedures and post-operative complications. Results Total mean operating time was 30.23 minutes. The peak point of the CUSUM chart for operating time was found at case 30, from this point onward trend began to decrease. From the 72 cases 6 had post-operative complications due to peritonitis and 2 had to be re-done due to inadequate positioning. Conclusions CUSUM chart indicated proficiency was gained at operation 30. There were minimal replacements necessary and only 6 cases that had post-operative complications all within the first 25 operations. This implies a short learning curve with great potential for improving efficiency with the use of the Freehand robot in simple laparoscopic procedures such as peritoneal dialysis catheter insertion.
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