Skill transference and learning curves in novice learners: a randomized comparison of robotic and laparoscopic platforms

Is the robotic revolution stunting surgical skills?

“…In light of the foregoing, it seems apparent that, overall, robotic cases are not equivalent experiences to laparoscopic cases in terms of their educational value [ 33 ]. The second element specific to robotic surgery is that research examining skill-acquisition has demonstrated positive skill transference from the laparoscopic to the robotic platform, but not the reverse – primary exposure to the robotic platform, which lacks the haptic feedback critical to the development of tissue handling and integral in laparoscopy, actually hindered subjects' abilities to perform tasks laparoscopically [ 38 ].…”