STRATA: Surgical Treatment Using Robotic Approach in The Acute Abdomen
This study, called STRATA, is looking into using robots for urgent tummy (abdominal) operations, also known as emergency general surgery. While robotic surgery is often used for planned operations and can lead to better results, it hasn't been properly studied for emergencies. However, patients needing urgent surgery are often very unwell, so they might benefit the most from the precision robotic surgery offers. The researchers want to find out how robotic surgery affects patient recovery, the surgeons performing the operations, and the NHS healthcare system as a whole. They also want to understand what patients and surgeons think about different surgery methods – open, keyhole, or robotic – for urgent procedures.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Imagine needing emergency surgery on your tummy – it's a stressful time, and doctors are always looking for the safest and most effective ways to help you. This study, called STRATA, is specifically looking at a modern way of doing these urgent operations: using robotic tools. Robotic surgery is already used a lot for planned operations because it gives surgeons a clearer view and allows for very precise movements, which can lead to faster recovery and less pain for patients.
However, we don't yet know if these benefits apply to emergency surgery. Patients who need urgent operations are often very poorly, so finding a method that could offer them a better outcome is really important. This research aims to understand if robotic surgery can make a positive difference for these patients, helping them recover better or reducing complications. It also looks at how it affects the surgeons and the overall healthcare system.
The study also wants to hear from patients and surgeons themselves. What do they think about robotic surgery compared to traditional open surgery or keyhole surgery when it's an emergency? Their thoughts and preferences are a key part of understanding how best to offer care in the future. By gathering all this information, doctors hope to make better decisions about how to use these advanced tools in urgent situations.
Key takeaways
- The study investigates robotic surgery for urgent tummy operations.
- It aims to see if robotic surgery offers benefits for emergency patients.
- Patients will complete online questionnaires about their recovery.
- Participation will not change the type of surgery you receive.
- Your preferences and experiences are valuable to the research.
- You can withdraw from the study at any time.
Who may be eligible?
This study is for adults aged 18 or older who need urgent surgery on their tummy. This is often called emergency general surgery. You might be considered for the study if your surgeon plans to use open surgery, keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery, or robotic surgery for your operation.
To take part, you need to be willing to follow the study instructions and be able to use a device with internet access to fill in some questionnaires. You also need to be able to understand and agree to take part in the study yourself.
There are some reasons why you wouldn't be able to join. For example, if you are under 18, if you can't give your own consent, or if you're having a very minor operation like an appendix removal or draining a small abscess. Also, if you can't come back for follow-up appointments or complete online forms, or if a medical condition means you can't understand the study details, you wouldn't be able to participate.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Are you having urgent (emergency) surgery on your tummy?
- Can you understand information about the study and agree to take part?
- Do you have access to the internet to complete online forms?
- Are you willing to complete questionnaires about your recovery?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, your involvement would primarily be about providing information. You won't be given any new medications specifically for the study. The type of surgery you receive will be decided by your medical team based on what's best for you, and it will be one of the standard approaches (open, keyhole, or robotic).
Your main role would be to complete electronic questionnaires from home. These forms will ask about your recovery, how you feel, and your experience. You'll need access to an internet-enabled device (like a smartphone, tablet, or computer) to complete these. The study team will explain how often and for how long you'll need to fill these in, but it's important to be able to complete them to participate.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS TrustVerified postcodePortsmouth, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What kind of surgery is this study looking at?
It's looking at urgent (emergency) operations on the tummy, like removing part of the bowel or repairing hernias, using robotic tools, keyhole surgery, or open surgery.
Will my surgery change if I join this study?
No, your medical team will decide the best type of surgery for your condition, just as they would normally. The study is about observing outcomes.
What do I have to do if I take part?
You'll be asked to fill in some online forms about your recovery and feelings after your surgery. You'll need internet access for this.
Is robotic surgery experimental?
Robotic surgery is a modern technique already used for many planned operations. This study is exploring its use specifically for emergencies.
Can I leave the study at any time?
Yes, you are free to stop taking part in the study at any point, and your medical care will not be affected.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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