Access to new technologies is an important consideration for surgeons when deciding where to apply for a consultant position, according to a new report from the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI).
The New Technologies for Future of Surgery in Ireland RCSI Working Group Report 2024 engaged with 30 surgeons, surgical trainees and researchers across a range of disciplines to explore current trends in the use of technology in surgical practice, training, and research.
Overall, the participating surgeons felt insufficiently exposed to new technologies, and access to new technologies had an important influence on decisions regarding where to apply for a consultant post.
Data analytics and 3D digital reconstruction of cross sectional imaging were important considerations for clinical specialists, while trainees felt the application of artificial intelligence, data analytics and digital platforms for collaboration were important considerations.
Looking forward, the study participants believed artificial intelligence, wearables, virtual, augmented-reality displays, and genomic analysis will be of great importance for surgery over the next decade.
Based on the study, surgeons are generally excited by the opportunities for more personalised and less invasive surgeries, and across the board their interest in new technologies is being driven by the desire to improve patient care and outcomes.
However, the study respondents also highlighted potential challenges such as the steep learning curve for surgeons, data security, and over-reliance on or inappropriate use of technology. They also conveyed general concern about the ability of surgeons and their units to make best use of new/disruptive technologies.
Ronan Cahill, RCSI council member and chair of the committee on new technologies in surgery in Ireland, described the work in the report as a first step in engagement.
“Like everywhere else in society, technology is embedded in surgery with increasing capability coming on-stream,” Professor Cahill said.
“With advances in computing power alongside improved patient diagnostics, including imaging and genomic analysis, the role of technology in surgery is set to accelerate further into the 21st century.
“Such capabilities require consideration of training, working, implementation and administration.”
While highlighting the benefits of a close relationship with industry, including early access to new technologies and opportunities to contribute to the early stages of device development, surgeons had concerns about the relationship with industry when learning about new technologies, the survey found.
Many participants expressed a distrust in the industry, particularly in relation to motivations and the accuracy of information.
More than 41 per cent of respondents identified the lack of a transparent or standardised implementation pathway as a problem when integrating a new technology and felt that a centralised process or pathway would be a benefit when implementing a new technology.
Giving the medtech industry perspective on the report, senior business development director at Medtronic, Enda Mulvany, said feedback from research and industry stakeholders highlighted the trust issues in the healthcare sector.
In response, HealthTech Ireland, in collaboration with Ibec’s Irish MedTech Association, has developed the Irish medical technology industry code of ethical business practice,” Mr Mulvany said.
“This code aims to uphold a culture of integrity and ethical business practices within Ireland’s medical technology industry,” he said.
“Compliance with this code is mandatory for HealthTech Ireland members in their interactions with healthcare professionals and organisations.
“Conducting research to identify technology providers’ adherence to ethical standards is essential when exploring new solutions. By working together, we can foster collaboration, build trust, and address the evolving needs of surgery in Ireland’s healthcare landscape.”
