Low confidence levels with the robotic platform among senior surgical residents: simulation training is needed

Abstract

Acquisition of robotic surgical skills by surgical residents is usually hindered by time pressure and financial imperatives. Robotic simulation training offers an attractive solution because it allows residents to learn in a safe, controlled, and standardized environment. We aimed to determine the confidence levels of senior surgical residents with the robotic platform, and how those levels were affected by simulation training. Twenty senior residents participated in a simulation course using perfused porcine tissue blocks to perform the following robotic procedures: Nissen fundoplication, Heller myotomy, sleeve gastrectomy, colectomy, and lobectomy. Procedural steps evaluated included port placements, docking process, suturing, using energy devices, and using staplers. Mean baseline confidence levels were low for all the surgical steps analyzed, and all these values significantly increased after the 3-day robotic training in the simulation center. A standardized formal robotic simulation program with realistic hands-on training should be incorporated in the general surgery residency curriculum.

A National Survey of Robotic Surgery Training Among Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery Residents

“…30 Confidence at the console can be increased through simulation training, which justifies implementation of a standardized robotics training programs. 31 Importantly, OHNS trainees are interested in learning robotic surgery skills, with 72.3% of current residents indicating a strong interest in formal training with robotics. However, given the lack of resource allocation and training time toward robotics training for OHNS trainees on the national level, development of robotic surgery skills among trainees may continue to be limited.…”

Status of Simulation-Based Training in Departments of Surgery in the United States

“…15,16 Realistic models based on perfused tissue blocks are also available and may represent a valid and less expensive training tool. 17,18 Efforts should be directed toward a standardized nationwide simulation curriculum, determining the appropriateness of each simulator in relation to the skills offered and ability to assess the competencies required of a surgeon.…”

Pediatric Robotic Surgery in South America: Advantages and Difficulties in Program Implementation

“…Based on what Orvieto published in 2012, that in the reduced field of pediatric surgery, simulation appears as a crucial tool for the development of robotic skills and shorten the learning curve (16, 20). Perhaps the way to accredit in the region in pediatric surgery should be based mainly on the acquisition of laparoscopic skills combined with a more complete and defined robotic simulation program.…”