A systematic review of comprehensive Robotic-assisted surgical (RAS) curricula

Robotic assisted surgery (RAS) is being increasingly used for minimal access surgery. There has been a growing interest in developing curricula for RAS training. We performed a systematic review of comprehensive RAS curricula. Methods: A systematic review of RAS curricula evidence and teaching was conducted on the platforms Medline, PubMed, Embase, CINAHL and PsycINFO combining robotic surgery with surgical training in February 2024 and updated in June 2025. After removal of duplicates 10,002 references were returned. Screening using the PICO framework for eligibility identified 175 relevant studies, out of which 39 studies reported on 29 comprehensive RAS curricula. Data were extracted and analysed using a predeveloped extraction tool. Analysis focused on common curricular elements and supporting evidence for curricula success according to Kirkpatrick's levels of evidence. Study quality was assessed using the MMERSQI (Modified Medical Education Research Study Quality Instrument) criteria. PROSPERO CRD42024566778. All 29 curricula included simulation training. The nature and volume of simulation training and mentorship varied widely across curricula. Objective assessment and non-technical skills training (NTS) were not uniformly included. Surgical societies outlined curricula with proficiency-based progression, modular intraoperative training and objective assessment. All studies found a benefit from curriculum implementation, but the methodological quality of evidence was low. Conclusion: A standardised RAS curriculum is feasible and beneficial and surgical societies have outlined RAS curricula which could be implemented locally. However, not all current comprehensive RAS curricular are grounded in the relevant educational frameworks. Further research supporting the implementation and evolution of RAS curricula is necessary.