Artificial Intelligence and Skills Training in Resident Education

Area of Science:

• Surgical Education
• Medical Technology
• Artificial Intelligence

Background:

• Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly influencing surgical training methodologies.
• AI's core features include objectivity, real-time feedback, and adaptive learning environments.
• These characteristics make AI suitable for augmenting mentor-led, self-directed surgical skill acquisition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the potential of artificial intelligence in transforming surgical education.
• To outline the applications of AI in teaching cognitive, psychomotor, and nontechnical surgical skills.
• To emphasize the need for careful evaluation of AI's impact on surgical training processes and outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Review of current applications and characteristics of AI in surgical education.
• Analysis of AI's suitability for various skill domains (cognitive, psychomotor, nontechnical).
• Assessment of the existing evidence base regarding AI's effectiveness and safety in surgical training.

Main Results:

• AI demonstrates potential for enhancing surgical education through objective and adaptive learning.
• AI can be applied across a spectrum of surgical skills, from cognitive to nontechnical.
• Current data supporting the widespread use of AI in surgical education is limited.

Conclusions:

• Artificial intelligence presents a significant opportunity to advance surgical education.
• Further rigorous research is essential to validate the benefits and address limitations of AI in surgical training.
• Implementation of AI in surgical education should be approached cautiously, prioritizing evidence-based practice.