Robotic surgery and resident training

Background: Robotic technology promises to have an important future in surgery, but few residency programs incorporate robotics into surgical training. We sought to compare the speed and accuracy with which junior residents could perform laparoscopic tasks using both a robotic surgical device (Zeus MicroWrist) and conventional laparoscopic instruments. Methods: Twelve residents performed exercises of progressive difficulty in an inanimate model using both the robot and conventional laparoscopy. Analysis of variance statistical analysis was used to compare task time and suturing accuracy scores. Results: Grasping and suturing exercises were performed significantly faster with conventional laparoscopic instruments than with the robot. However, no difference in task time was noted for intracorporeal knot tying. Accuracy scores for suturing were higher for the robot. Conclusions: Junior residents can be instructed easily and quickly in both robotic and conventional advanced laparoscopic skills. The utility of robotic surgical devices in resident training requires further investigation.