Integration of Structured Robotic Surgical Training into Gynecology Residency Education

Abstract

Study Objective: To establish a foundation for and integration of formal da Vinci robotic surgical training into gynecology residency education.Design: Observational analysis of residents in an obstetrics and gynecology residency program. Structured training sessions were split into two six person groups, allotting about 6 hours per group.Setting: Northeastern community hospital, ACGME accredited residency training program. All robotic training and skill sets performed with the da Vinci S Surgical System.Patients: 12 Ob-Gyn residents, ranging from PGY-1 to PGY-4, 3 residents per year.Intervention: Company trainers and local faculty provided structured hands-on instruction to residents in two sessions. Skill set mastering was measured in a structured format.Measurements and Main Results: Each group was introduced to the da Vinci S Surgical System. The training modules included the following: Overview of the robotic system, proper setting and docking of the system, skill set (docking practicum): timed evaluation of system docking Overview of sytem controls, suturing overview, skill set (system manipualtion and suturing): timed evaluation in various skills including rubber band manipualtion on a peg board, suturing, and “peeling a grape”.Conclusion: Currently, credentialing in robotic surgery for most surgeons requires off-site training followed by preceptored instruction. Robotic training using the da Vinci Surgical Sytem can easily be integrated into a gynecology residency curriculum. The belief is that the earlier that gynecologists are exposed to formal training with the robotic platform, the more likely it is that the individual could be credentialed during residency. This pilot program is intended to promote progressive on-site robotic skill set mastering for gynecology residents. Study Objective: To establish a foundation for and integration of formal da Vinci robotic surgical training into gynecology residency education. Design: Observational analysis of residents in an obstetrics and gynecology residency program. Structured training sessions were split into two six person groups, allotting about 6 hours per group. Setting: Northeastern community hospital, ACGME accredited residency training program. All robotic training and skill sets performed with the da Vinci S Surgical System. Patients: 12 Ob-Gyn residents, ranging from PGY-1 to PGY-4, 3 residents per year. Intervention: Company trainers and local faculty provided structured hands-on instruction to residents in two sessions. Skill set mastering was measured in a structured format. Measurements and Main Results: Each group was introduced to the da Vinci S Surgical System. The training modules included the following: Overview of the robotic system, proper setting and docking of the system, skill set (docking practicum): timed evaluation of system docking Overview of sytem controls, suturing overview, skill set (system manipualtion and suturing): timed evaluation in various skills including rubber band manipualtion on a peg board, suturing, and “peeling a grape”. Conclusion: Currently, credentialing in robotic surgery for most surgeons requires off-site training followed by preceptored instruction. Robotic training using the da Vinci Surgical Sytem can easily be integrated into a gynecology residency curriculum. The belief is that the earlier that gynecologists are exposed to formal training with the robotic platform, the more likely it is that the individual could be credentialed during residency. This pilot program is intended to promote progressive on-site robotic skill set mastering for gynecology residents.