RESUMEN
BACKGROUND: The objective of this study was to describe the prevalence, characteristics, and risk factors of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) infection among health care workers (HCWs) at King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. METHODS: A prospective cross-sectional study of HCWs confirmed to have COVID-19 infection from March 1, 2020 to December 31, 2022. RESULTS: A total of 746 HCWs were diagnosed with COVID-19. Patients' age ranged from 22 to 60 years with a mean ± standard deviation of 37.4 ± 8.7 years. The infection was community-acquired in 584 (78.3%) HCWs. The vast majority (82.6%) of the infected HCWs had no comorbidities. Nurses (400/746 or 53.6%) represented the largest professional group, followed by physicians (128/746 or 17.2%), administrative staff (125/746 or 16.8%), respiratory therapists (54/746 or 7.2%), and physiotherapists (39/746 or 5.2%). Symptoms included fever (64.1%), cough (55.6%), sore throat (44.6%), headache (22.9%), runny nose (19.6%), shortness of breath (19.0%), fatigue (12.7%), body aches (11.4%), diarrhea (10.9%), vomiting (4.4%), and abdominal pain (2.8%). Most (647 or 86.7%) patients were managed as outpatients. Four (0.5%) HCWs died. CONCLUSIONS: HCWs face a dual risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection, both from community exposure and within the hospital setting. Comprehensive infection control strategies are needed to protect HCWs both inside and outside the hospital environment.
RESUMEN
Robotic technology has transformed the field of surgery significantly. Since its inception in the 1970s, robotic surgery has advanced tremendously. The utilization of robotic systems, such as the da Vinci Surgical System, has become increasingly prevalent in minimally invasive procedures. These interventions offer enhanced precision, dexterity, and visualization. In general surgery, robotics has facilitated complex procedures, leading to reduced morbidity and shorter hospital stays. In urology, the robotic platform has revolutionized prostatectomies and other intricate interventions, demonstrating superior outcomes compared to traditional approaches. Orthopedic surgery has embraced robotics for precise joint replacements and spinal procedures. In pediatric surgery, the application of robotics has enabled intricate surgeries with reduced invasiveness and faster recovery times. Furthermore, the integration of artificial intelligence with robotic systems has paved the way for personalized treatment plans and data-driven decision-making. Despite these advancements, challenges such as cost and training persist. As robotic technology continues to evolve, its potential applications extend beyond current boundaries. This review aims to provide insights into the multifaceted impact of the robotic revolution in surgery and the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.
