Robots in Surgery: Training the Next Generation of Doctors

Robotic surgery is becoming more common in urology. To keep up, doctors need proper training. A recent study created and tested new ways to teach these skills. Experts from around the world worked together. They used a special process to agree on the best methods. This process is called the Delphi method. It helps groups reach a consensus. Two training models were developed. The first is called the orange model. It teaches cutting, stitching, and tying knots. The second is the catheter-balloon model. It focuses on joining tubes in the urinary system. The experts broke down each task into steps. They also identified mistakes that could happen. Some mistakes are minor. Others are more serious and could cause problems. For the orange model, three main steps were identified. These are cutting, stitching, and tying knots. The experts found nine minor mistakes for cutting, 13 for stitching, and five for tying knots. There were also three serious mistakes. The catheter-balloon model had two steps. These are stitching and tying knots. The experts found 13 minor mistakes for stitching and five for tying knots. There were also three serious mistakes, including leakage. These new training methods are simple and effective. They can be used in many different settings. This makes it easier to train new doctors in robotic surgery. The goal is to ensure that future surgeons are well-prepared. They need to be safe and skilled. These training models are a step in the right direction.