Sponsoring surgeons: An investigation on the influence of the da Vinci robot

摘要: Abstract Introduction The integrity of the medical literature about robotic surgery remains unclear despite wide-spread adoption. We sought to determine if payment from Intuitive Surgical Incorporated (ISI) affected quality research produced by surgeons. Methods Publicly available financial data CMS website regarding top-20 earners ISI for 2015 was gathered. Studies conducted these surgeons were identified using PubMed. Inclusion criteria consisted publications da Vinci ® robot on patient outcomes. primary outcome our study conclusion positive/equivocal/negative towards robot. Secondary outcomes included authorship, sponsorship, controls, and disclosure. Results top received $3,296,844 in 2015, with a median $141,959. Sub-specialties general (55%), colorectal (20%), thoracic (15%), obstetrics/gynecology (10%). Of 37 studies, there 1 RCT, observational studies comprising rest. majority (n = 16, 43%) had no control population, 11 (30%) comparing same institution/surgeon, Though sponsored only 6 (16%) all positive conclusions, 27 (73%) conclusions use, 9 (24%) equivocal, (3%) negative. Overall, 13 lead authorship senior. Conclusion This initial pilot highlights potential bias as current published benefactors demonstrates low highly approval substantiates need large, systematic review influence sponsoring literature.