Table 2.

Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and costs of the Avatera robotic system

Strengths	Weaknesses
1. Unique device characteristics  Single-use instruments  Use of only bipolar energy  Slender eye-piece design 2. Similar main features as the standard da Vinci RS 3. Easy-to-learn handling and modern training concept 4. Timely introduction (only one player in the market) 5. Reduced costs for robotic service	1. No clinical studies on the Avatera platform 2. Well-established operational and functional features of da Vinci robot 3. Difficulties in changing surgeons’ attitudes and beliefs

Opportunities	Threats
1. Further technological improvements  Robotic sealing instruments (simultaneous cutting and hemostasis)  3D vision for all bedside surgical team  Separate carts for each arm 2. Covid-19  Surgeries requiring minimal surgical personal involvement (true for all RS)  Increasing need for one-day MAS surgeries	1. Technical defects of the robot 2. Covid-19 associated issues  Supply difficulties  Training difficulties