Robotic lobectomy: how to teach thoracic residents

Area of Science:

• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Surgical Robotics
• Thoracic Surgery

Background:

• Robotic thoracic surgery has advanced significantly, showing strong clinical and oncological outcomes.
• Despite its benefits, safety concerns persist, particularly during the learning curve for complex procedures like lung resections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To emphasize the critical need for specialized training programs in robotic thoracic surgery.
• To propose an effective curriculum for surgeons and residents to improve safety and efficiency.

Main Methods:

• Development of comprehensive robotic surgery training curricula.
• Integration of technical content with psychomotor training using virtual reality, physical, and animal models.
• Gradual progression of surgical complexity for residents, starting with simpler procedures.

Main Results:

• Training programs are essential for addressing safety concerns during the learning curve of robotic thoracic procedures.
• Specific training in robotic lobectomy is vital due to the complexity of pulmonary vessel dissection.

Conclusions:

• A robust training curriculum, incorporating diverse simulation methods and progressive skill development, is capital for safe and efficient robotic thoracic surgery.
• Effective evaluation methods should span from initial skill acquisition to clinical practice.