Single-surgeon training of 14 novice surgeons in robotic cholecystectomy: a study of 300 consecutive cases, assessing training outcomes and surgical performance.

Abstract

Robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) is a rapidly evolving field, requiring comprehensive training for widespread adoption. The aim of this study was to analyze the effectiveness of RAS cholecystectomy training in improving the technical skills and confidence of novice surgeons. Furthermore, the study examined the transferability of RAS skills to laparoscopic skills, the role of RAS cholecystectomies in reducing errors and improving patient outcomes, and identified factors that predict a successful transition from traditional laparoscopic surgery to RAS surgery. The RAST curriculum includes multimodal learning content delivered through a cloud-based platform, with three steps: basic training, simulation exercises, and structured on-patient training in the operating room. One general surgeon was trained on the Intuitive Surgical da Vinci system and assisted in performing 10 da Vinci-assisted laparoscopic cholecystectomies. In the first 300 patients who underwent robotic cholecystectomy, there were no major complications, conversions to laparoscopy, or open surgeries. The RAST curriculum demonstrates feasibility in providing a comprehensive and effective RAS training experience for surgical residents, reducing the need for extensive travel and high costs. The RAST curriculum is a promising solution for training surgical residents in RAS, with potential for widespread adoption and scalability.