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Feature Article
Robotic Surgery Claims on United States Hospital Websites
Article first published online: 17 MAY 2011
DOI: 10.1111/j.1945-1474.2011.00148.x
© 2011 National Association for Healthcare Quality
Additional Information
How to Cite
Jin, L. X., Ibrahim, A. M., Newman, N. A., Makarov, D. V., Pronovost, P. J. and Makary, M. A. (2011), Robotic Surgery Claims on United States Hospital Websites. Journal for Healthcare Quality, 33: 48–52. doi: 10.1111/j.1945-1474.2011.00148.x
Publication History
- Issue published online: 18 NOV 2011
- Article first published online: 17 MAY 2011
- Abstract
- Article
- References
- Cited By
Keywords:
- laparoscopy;
- marketing;
- robotic-assisted surgery
Abstract
To examine the prevalence and content of robotic surgery information presented on websites of U.S. hospitals. We completed a systematic analysis of 400 randomly selected U.S. hospital websites in June of 2010. Data were collected on the presence and location of robotic surgery information on a hospital's website; use of images or text provided by the manufacturer; use of direct link to manufacturer website; statements of clinical superiority; statements of improved cancer outcome; mention of a comparison group for a statement; citation of supporting data and mention of specific risks. Forty-one percent of hospital websites described robotic surgery. Among these, 37% percent presented robotic surgery on their homepage, 73% used manufacturer-provided stock images or text, and 33% linked to a manufacturer website. Statements of clinical superiority were made on 86% of websites, with 32% describing improved cancer control, and 2% described a reference group. No hospital website mentioned risks. Materials provided by hospitals regarding the surgical robot overestimate benefits, largely ignore risks and are strongly influenced by the manufacturer.