Use of Innovative Technology in Surgical Training in Resource-Limited Settings: A Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Medical Education Technology

Background:

• Growing interest in global surgery has not led to equitable information exchange between high-income countries (HICs) and low-income countries (LMICs).
• Emphasis is shifting towards training local medical personnel to build surgical capacity and reduce reliance on expatriates.
• Innovative technologies like virtual models and simulators are being developed for surgical training in low-resource environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess and summarize innovative technologies for surgical training in low-resource settings.

Main Methods:

• A scoping review of academic and grey literature on surgical education technologies was conducted from 2000 to 2021.
• Searches included Medline, Embase, and app stores (Google, iOS, Android).

Main Results:

• Four main categories of surgical training platforms were identified: web-based, app-based, virtual/augmented reality, and simulation.
• Platforms were analyzed based on content, effectiveness, cost, accessibility, and barriers to use.

Conclusions:

• Virtual learning platforms offer accessible, geographically unconstrained, and continuously updated surgical training solutions.
• Increased investment in free, open-access surgical training programs is recommended to ensure global access.
• Such initiatives will foster sustainable and equitable development in global surgical care.