The Role of Simulation in Attaining Proficiency in Minimally Invasive Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery.

Abstract

The implementation of robotic surgery in the field of hepato-pancreato-biliary (HPB) has been a slow but significant process. HPB procedures offer a unique challenge when for new technologies, as the surgeries themselves are complex, with long learning curves. Yet the benefits of the robotic approach for this patient population are notable: decreased length of stay, blood loss, postoperative complications, and improving quality of life. The use of robotic simulation focused curriculum plays a crucial role in mentoring experienced surgeons and surgical trainees. Although further study remains, early studies suggest a structured simulation curriculum decreases time, technical errors, and improves proficiency, ultimately leading to a more expedited and safe implementation of robotic techniques in the HPB field.