Virtual reality surgical simulators- a prerequisite for robotic surgery.

Area of Science:

• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Robotic Surgery Training
• Surgical Simulation

Background:

• Computer-assisted minimally invasive surgery is expanding globally, necessitating robust training for robotic surgeons.
• Hospitals in India are increasingly considering robotic platforms, highlighting the need for effective surgeon education.
• Virtual reality (VR) simulators offer a valuable tool for familiarizing surgeons with robotic consoles before live procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the optimal amount of simulator training required for surgeons before their initial operation on the da Vinci® Surgical System.
• To assess the learning curve of novice surgeons compared to experienced staff surgeons using VR simulation.

Main Methods:

• Simulations were performed using Intuitive Surgical's da Vinci® Robot Skill Simulator with Mimic Technologies software.
• Participants included experienced staff surgeons and novice surgeons, each completing a set of seven standardized activities.
• Performance was evaluated based on mean exercise scores from initial attempts and subsequent repetitions.

Main Results:

• Initially, experienced staff surgeons significantly outperformed novices across all exercises.
• The performance gap between novices and staff diminished with repeated practice.
• By the sixth attempt, most novice surgeons achieved scores comparable to those of experienced staff surgeons.

Conclusions:

• Approximately six repetitions on the VR simulator may represent the minimum training required for novices before performing robotic surgery.
• VR simulation effectively bridges the skill gap, enabling novices to reach proficiency levels similar to experienced surgeons.
• Standardized VR simulation protocols can enhance readiness for robotic surgery, ensuring patient safety and optimal outcomes.