Towards a problem-based training curriculum for surgical robotics: the SAFROS project
Abstract: This paper presents work in progress in the framework of the SAFROS (Patient Safety in Robotic Surgery) project for the development of a problem-based surgical training curriculum, which concerns the implementation of robotics technology in surgical training. Starting from a review of the current training systems and dedicated courses, we highlight the ground-based common factors required to acquire such proficiency in robotic-assisted surgical laparoscopy. We develop an ad-hoc questionnaire to reach a consensus on such training curriculum, and we propose it to an international panel of 568 surgical members from different clinical, educational, and research background. Finally, three learning theories and subsequent training strategies are considered for the alignment of technology with educational principles and some practical implications for designing robotic surgical training are sketched.