Robotic Systems and Surgical Education

This experimental study aimed at evaluating the efficiency of robots in the learning of surgical techniques. We recruited 40 surgeons, divided them into 2 groups of 20, each of which used the robotic system. The first group consisted of experienced physicians, and the second group comprised physicians in training. Each surgeon was allowed to use the da Vinci robotic system for 30 minutes twice in the span of 24 hours. The practice time period was divided into 15 minutes for tying and placement of sutures and 15 minutes for incisions and vascular suturing. We recorded the times required for the performances, and a statistically significant outcome was obtained. With variance analysis (ANOVA), it has been shown that the time needed to perform the exercises depends in a statistically significant way on the kind of test to be performed (P<0.01), the experience of the surgeon (P<0.001), and the kind of operation (P<0.025). Robotic systems can be an optimal tool both for residents and experienced surgeons, for learning of basic surgical tasks and for perfection of clinical skills. The use of the system has great potential in surgical training, offering a reduction in the learning period, enabling checking for errors, and allowing an evaluation of the capabilities obtained. Final goals are a drastic reduction in the learning curve, a better technique, with a significant reduction in surgical errors and complications, with greater safety for the patient.