FreeHand Robot-Assisted Gynecologic Surgery in Trinidad & Tobago: Case Reports

Abstract

Background: Minimally invasive surgery is still at a relatively early stage throughout the Anglophone Caribbean and robotic surgery has been largely non-existent. There have been many unique obstacles to the introduction of robotic surgery in the Caribbean. Methods: We present a case report to document the initial experience with the use of the FreeHand surgical robot during gynecologic operations in Trinidad & Tobago. Results: Two cases are presented to highlight the use of the FreeHand robot for gynecologic operations. We outline our experiences introducing the FreeHand® robotic arm to facilitate minimally invasive gynecologic surgery in the Caribbean. Conclusions: The FreeHand® system is a good intermediary between conventional laparoscopy and a full surgical robot. We believe this technology can be incorporated into the armamentarium of gynecologic surgeons in resource-poor nations, once there is appropriate training and intra-operative mentoring from experts familiar with the technology.