Advanced non-medical roles within surgery and their engagement with assistive health technologies

The role of the surgical care practitioner (SCP) is common in UK surgical centres. The SCP curriculum is robust and well developed in multiple specialties since it was first developed in 1989. The SCP role can often concentrate on technical skills, developing a skillset that is highly effective during traditional open surgical procedures. This skillset requires further investigation because technology-assisted surgeries are becoming more common, including the use of novel approaches to developing non-technical skills. To effectively develop this skillset, analysis of robust advanced practice frameworks is necessary, alongside clear alignment to the advanced practitioners' professional regulations. This article examines the interpretation of the advanced practice concept within technology-assisted surgeries, which is potentially guiding the evolution of advanced practice within operating theatres and improving patient care.