Transference of skills in robotic vs. laparoscopic simulation: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Background Elucidating how robotic skills are best obtained will enable surgeons to best develop future robotic training programs. We perform a randomized controlled trial to assess the performance of robotic compared to laparoscopic surgery, transference of pre-existing skills between the two modalities, and to assess the learning curve between the two using novice medical students. Methods Forty students were randomized into either Group A or B. Students practiced and were tested on a peg transfer task in either a laparoscopic simulator (LS) and robotic simulator (RS) in a pre-defined order. Performance, transference of skills and learning curve were assessed for each modality. Additionally, a fatigue questionnaire was issued. Results There was no significant difference between overall laparoscopic scores (219 ± 19) and robotic scores (227 ± 23) (p = 0.065). Prior laparoscopic skills performed significantly better on robotic testing (236 ± 12) than without laparoscopic skills (216 ± 28) (p = 0.008). There was no significant difference in scores between students with prior robotic skills (223 ± 16) than without robotic skills (215 ± 22) (p = 0.162). Students reported no difference in fatigue between RS and LS. The learning curve plateaus at similar times between both modalities. Conclusion Novice medical students with laparoscopic skills performed better on a RS test than students without laparoscopic training, suggesting a transference of skills from laparoscopic to robotic surgery. These results suggest laparoscopic training may be sufficient in general surgery residencies as the skills transfer to robotic if used post-residency.

Laparoscopic but not open surgical skills can be transferred to robot‐assisted surgery: A systematic review and meta‐analysis

“…The search retrieved a total of 14,120 studies, with an additional 647 studies screened by cross‐referencing, of which 30 studies were included in qualitative synthesis and 26 13–42 in quantitative synthesis, respectively. Detailed information on the study selection process for quantitative and qualitative analysis is depicted in Supporting Information : Appendix A including the PRISMA Flowchart (Figure ).…”

Robotics Surgery

“…12 In this line, a recent study suggested that laparoscopic skills are transferrable to robotic surgery. 13 Another innovation has been the development of bio-tissue-based simulation, or a combination of 3D-printing and hydrogel-casting technologies, yielding a fully immersive platform for robotic kidney transplantation training in a dry lab setting. 14,15 The dual-console option in current robotic systems also aids teaching.…”

Comments on Experience With Establishing a Robotic Donor Hepatectomy Program for Pediatric Liver Transplantation

“…Training in laparoscopic techniques is advantageous to learning robotic techniques in young trainees. The advantage to senior surgeons who are adapted at laparoscopic techniques is less clear, 5,6 and there is a paucity of data in the acquisition of robotic skills in senior surgeons who are not laparoscopically trained. Dr Rela points out that open surgical experience is the key to successful robotic hepatectomy.…”