Paediatric robotic surgery simulation: Results of a national survey and scoping review

The present nationwide survey combined with a scoping review aimed to provide an overview of current paediatric robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) training practices in France, focusing on simulation tools and evaluation methods.

A cross-sectional national survey was conducted among all French paediatric surgery centres with existing or upcoming RAS programmes. Answers were collected using Likert scales. A scoping review was conducted following PRISMA-ScR guidelines, screening publications from 2000 to 2025 on paediatric robotic surgery and simulation.

Eighteen surgeons from 13 centres responded. Two centres had exclusive access to robotic equipment, whereas others shared platforms with adult teams. Centres reported a mean 4.2 training days per month and 37.5 RAS procedures per year. Twelve respondents reported that a dedicated paediatric RAS curriculum would be more appropriate. Fifteen (82 %) engaged in additional simulation outside their initial training. Three independent paediatric RAS simulation programmes were identified, differing in format and target audience. Only three participants used objective performance-assessment tools. The scoping review included 8 articles from 361 records. All focused on procedural robotic simulation in paediatric settings; only one addressed non-procedural interprofessional simulation. The included studies demonstrated benefits of simulation in accelerating the learning curve, improving trocar placement, and strengthening team performance.

These findings support the need for structured, paediatric-specific RAS simulation programmes integrated into training pathways, supported by structured evaluation frameworks and institutional investment.