Targeting the Future: Developing a Training Curriculum for Robotic Assisted Neurosurgery

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Medical Education
• Robotics

Background:

• Technological advancements are increasing the use of robotics in neurosurgery.
• Neurosurgical residency programs require effective training methods for safe and efficient use of robotic systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a detailed curriculum for robot-assisted stereotactic electroencephalography (SEEG) and deep brain stimulation (DBS) electrode implantation.
• To align training with Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education's (ACGME) milestone requirements.
• To assess resident training in surgical robotics.

Main Methods:

• A curriculum incorporating hands-on and theoretical didactics was developed for robot-assisted SEEG and DBS electrode implantation.
• The curriculum design is based on ACGME milestone requirements for epilepsy and movement disorder surgery.
• Residents were surveyed to evaluate their experience with robotics in surgical training.

Main Results:

• Over 100 patients underwent robot-assisted SEEG and DBS electrode implantations since 2019, with resident involvement in planning and execution.
• Didactic sessions with experienced faculty are emphasized as crucial learning tools before operating room experience.
• Survey results indicate residents receive more intraoperative training than formal sessions, but desire more cadaveric simulation.

Conclusions:

• The developed curriculum provides a structured framework for assessing robotic education in neurosurgical training.
• This curriculum, based on ACGME milestones, can serve as a template for resident and fellow education in neurosurgical robotics.