AIS Highlights | An Exclusive Interview with Prof. Rodolfo J. Oviedo, CEO of The Robotic Global Surgical Society (TROGSS)

Prof. Rodolfo J. Oviedo, MD, FACS, FRCS, FICS, FASMBS, DABS-FPDMBS, is a distinguished metabolic and bariatric surgeon specializing in robotic surgery, abdominal wall reconstruction, anti-reflux surgery, and interventional bariatric endoscopy. Having trained at renowned institutions such as the University of Texas Health Science Center and Houston Methodist Hospital, he currently leads the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Services and Robotic Surgery Program at Nacogdoches Medical Center in Texas. In addition, he serves as a clinical professor at the Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine, University of Houston, and Sam Houston State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. Prof. Oviedo is also the CEO of TROGSS (The Robotic Surgery Global Society).

TROGSS (The Robotic Global Surgical Society) - an intercontinental professional society dedicated to "Advancing Robotic Surgery and Education, for Our Patients, by Our Surgeons." Founded in 2021 as the robotic surgery chapter of TUGSS (The Upper Gastrointestinal Surgical Society), TROGSS became an independent surgical society in 2024, officially registered in France. The society represents a global network of surgeons specializing in robotic surgery across multiple disciplines. Dedicated to advancing robotic surgery and education for the benefit of patients, TROGSS serves practicing surgeons, surgical trainees (fellows, residents, interns, registrars), and medical students worldwide who are passionate about robotic surgery, AI, and extended reality (augmented and virtual).

Question 1

Could you share with us your journey in the field of surgery, particularly your experience with robotic-assisted procedures?

Question 2

As the co-founder of The Robotic Global Surgical Society (TROGSS), could you share with us what inspired you to establish TROGSS? Can you tell us more about the mission, vision, and key initiatives of TROGSS?

Question 3

Could you elaborate on the potential synergies between robotic surgery and AI-driven surgery in the field of surgery?

Question 4

As an expert in robotic surgery, how do you envision the evolution of AI and robotics in surgery over the next decade?

What are some of the biggest challenges currently facing the field, and how can organizations like TROGSS and AIS work together to overcome them?

Question 5

As a specialist in bariatric and metabolic surgery how do you view the critical role of AI in enhancing robotic techniques for weight-loss surgeries?

Additionally, as Magnetic Surgery is an emerging technology in digestive surgery, could you share your insights on this new field and how it might influence the future of bariatric and metabolic surgery?

Question 6

As you mentioned that more AI's work is counseling rather than executing, do you think the results of Artificial Intelligence deserve unconditional trust after a lot of calculations?

Question 7

We are delighted on AIS and TROGSS are cooperating on launching a special issue. Could you share the purpose and vision behind this special issue?

What key topics or types of research are you hoping to feature, and what do you hope this special issue will achieve in terms of advancing research and clinical practice in the field?

In the interview, Prof. Oviedo highlighted how AI is transforming surgical practice by enhancing precision, optimizing postoperative recovery, and reducing patient risks. He emphasized, "AI not only provides real-time feedback but also supports surgical decision making, making procedures safer and more refined."

The collaboration between AIS and TROGSS underscores a shared commitment to medical education and technological innovation. By integrating AI into robotic surgery workflows, both organizations aim to explore AI’s full potential in improving patient safety, surgical efficiency, and clinical outcomes.

Prof. Oviedo also discussed existing AI applications in robotic surgery, particularly in gastrointestinal procedures. He explained how AI can assist surgeons in real time, offering feedback on anastomosis techniques to ensure safe and effective suturing. He noted, “AI’s rapid development is pushing the entire surgical field toward greater intelligence and precision.”

As a leading journal in AI-driven surgery, AIS will continue working closely with TROGSS to promote research and education in this rapidly evolving field. Looking ahead, this partnership is expected to drive further innovations, bridging the gap between AI technology and robotic surgical applications.

Stay tuned for more insights and advancements as AIS and TROGSS pave the way for the future of AI in robotic surgery.