Acquisition of robotic surgical skills does not require laparoscopic training: a randomized controlled trial

Robotic surgery is a valid option for minimally invasive surgery in most surgical specialties. However, the need to master laparoscopy is questionable before starting specific training in robotic surgery. We compared the development of basic robotic surgery skills between individuals randomized to train in conventional, laparoscopic, or robotic skills.

We conducted a single-centered, single-blinded randomized trial. Medical students were randomly assigned to 20 h of conventional, laparoscopic, or robotic surgical training. Students with previous surgical experience were excluded. Participants were evaluated pre- and post-training on the dV-Trainer robotic surgical simulator with the following exercises: Camera Targeting 1, Peg Board 1, Ring and Rail 1, and Ring and Rail 2.

Sixty-six students were randomly assigned to each training group. Eight individuals did not complete the study (2 in the conventional group, 3 in the laparoscopic group, and 3 in the robotic group). All groups demonstrated significant improvement in the composite score and in each task following the training period (p < 0.001). No differences were seen between the conventional and laparoscopic groups in the composite score or individual tasks. The robotic group showed greater improvement in number of errors, economy of motion, workspace utilization, and time for completion compared to the other groups. The laparoscopic group showed improved camera manipulation skills compared to the conventional group, while the conventional group showed improved errors and economy of motion compared to the laparoscopic group.

There was no difference in the acquisition of basic robotic surgical skills between individuals trained in basic conventional or laparoscopic surgical skills. We believe surgeons mastery in laparoscopy is not needed before initiating robotic surgical training. However, basic principles of laparoscopy remain applicable to robotic surgery. Future studies should compare transferability of conventional and laparoscopic training to robotic skills in the operating room.