Advancements in CRC Surgery: The Art of Robotic Surgery

In this CME, Kellie Cunningham, MD, discusses the recent advancements in robotic colorectal surgery (CRS), robotic CRS procedures using video-based case walkthroughs, the current criticisms and controversies surrounding robotic surgery to assess their validity and relevance in clinical practice, common skepticism and misconceptions about robotic technology, and how to advocate for continued investment and support of surgical innovation.

Educational Objectives 

Upon completion of this activity, participants should be able to:

• Describe recent advancements in robotic colorectal surgery (CRS).
• Analyze robotic CRS procedures using video-based case walkthroughs.
• Examine current criticisms and controversies surrounding robotic surgery to assess their validity and relevance in clinical practice.
• Evaluate common skepticism and misconceptions about robotic technology.
• Advocate for continued investment and support of surgical innovation.

Disclosures:

All individuals in a position to control the content of this education activity have disclosed all financial relationships with any companies whose primary business is producing, marketing, selling, re-selling, or distributing healthcare products used by or on patients. All of the relevant financial relationships for the individuals listed below have been mitigated. 

Dr. Kellie Cunningham receives;  

• Consultant: Intuitive Surgical

Accreditation Statement

In support of improving patient care, the University of Pittsburgh is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.

The University of Pittsburgh designates enduring material activity for a maximum of 0.50 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit[s]™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Other health care professionals will receive a certificate of attendance confirming the number of contact hours commensurate with the extent of participation in this activity.

For your credit transcript, please access our website 4 weeks post-completion at http://ccehs.upmc.com and follow the link to the Credit Transcript page. If you do not provide the last 5 digits of your SSN on the next page you will not be able to access a CME credit transcript. Providing your SSN is voluntary.

Release Date: 10/21/2025 | Last Modified On: 10/21/2025 | Expires: 10/21/2026