Structured training and competence assessment in colorectal robotic surgery. Results of a consensus experts round table

Int J Med Robot. 2016 Dec;12(4):634-641. doi: 10.1002/rcs.1731. Epub 2016 Jan 25.

Abstract

Background: A structured training is a key element for the learning of techniques with a high level of complexity, such as robotic colorectal surgery.

Methods: This study reports the results of an expert consensus round table held during the 6th Clinical Robotic Surgery Association (CRSA) congress, focusing on recommendations in robotic colorectal surgery.

Results: Three sequential steps are proposed for training: a basic module, to learn basic robotic skills and general competencies; an advanced module, to acquire skills to safely perform a colorectal resection, and tutored clinical practice providing procedures of increasing complexity. Each specific skill of the basic module and performance of each surgical step of a colorectal procedure was evaluated and rated from 1 to 3.

Conclusions: Defining requirements to begin robotic colorectal activity, delineation of structured training programs and objectification of the acquired competences are key elements for a safe and efficient learning of robotic colorectal surgery. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Keywords: colorectal surgery; recommendations; robotic surgery.

MeSH terms

  • Anesthesiology
  • Clinical Competence
  • Colon / surgery*
  • Colorectal Surgery / education*
  • Colorectal Surgery / instrumentation
  • Colorectal Surgery / methods*
  • Congresses as Topic
  • Expert Testimony
  • Humans
  • Rectum / surgery*
  • Robotic Surgical Procedures / education*
  • Surgeons