Structured Training in Robotic Abdominal Wall Surgery: A Systematic Review of Educational Models, Methodologies,...

Area of Science:

• Surgical Training
• Robotic Surgery
• Abdominal Wall Surgery

Background:

• Robotic-assisted abdominal wall surgery requires advanced skills.
• Various training methods exist, including simulation, animal models, and curricula.
• This review assesses training strategies for skill acquisition and cost-effectiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and critically assess current training strategies for robotic-assisted abdominal wall surgery.
• To compare the effectiveness of different training models in skill acquisition.
• To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of these training approaches.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Google Scholar up to April 2025.
• The review followed PRISMA guidelines and was registered on PROSPERO (CRD420251027155).
• Studies included robotic training programs for abdominal wall surgery, with 8 studies selected from 3,038 records.

Main Results:

• Eight studies were included, with moderate risk of bias.
• Training models comprised virtual reality simulation (4), inanimate models (3), porcine models (2), and intraoperative training (4).
• Only two studies used validated tools for skill assessment; costs varied, but one study showed cost savings post-training.

Conclusions:

• Current training models for robotic abdominal wall surgery are diverse and lack standardized assessment.
• Integrated curricula show potential, but validated skill assessment tools are underutilized.
• Further high-quality research is essential to standardize training and evaluate cost-effectiveness.