Implementing a robotics curriculum at an academic general surgery training program: our initial experience.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Technology
• Robotics in Medicine

Background:

• Robotic surgical platforms are increasingly adopted by hospitals, necessitating comprehensive training for surgical residents.
• Academic medical centers face the challenge of integrating robotic surgery training into existing residency programs.
• Effective curricula are crucial for equipping the next generation of surgeons with robotic surgical skills.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and implement a structured robotic surgical curriculum for general surgery residents.
• To evaluate the initial experience and effectiveness of the implemented robotic surgical training program.
• To share insights on creating an efficient and comprehensive robotic surgery training pathway.

Main Methods:

• A curriculum encompassing online modules, readings, bedside training, console simulation, and supervised operative experience was developed.
• The curriculum was implemented for 20 general surgery residents during the 2014-2015 academic year.
• Training involved participation as a bedside assistant and operating at the surgeon console in various case types.

Main Results:

• All 20 residents completed the didactic and bedside training components.
• 13 out of 20 residents (65%) gained experience operating the robotic platform at the surgeon console.
• The curriculum facilitated the efficient training and integration of residents into robot-assisted surgical cases.

Conclusions:

• The developed curriculum successfully trained residents in robotic surgery, integrating various learning modalities.
• A comprehensive robotic surgical training program should include didactic learning, simulation, and supervised operating room experience.
• Residency programs must tailor their robotic surgery training based on available caseloads and resident numbers to ensure adequate exposure.