Robotics in Gastrointestinal Surgery Training | Hands On Simulation

Course Overview

The Robotics in Gastrointestinal Surgery Training Program is designed to systematically develop operative proficiency, technical expertise, and clinical confidence in robotic-assisted gastrointestinal surgery. Through a structured curriculum, participants gain comprehensive knowledge of robotic system setup, patient positioning, surgical planning, and procedural workflows relevant to gastrointestinal surgical procedures.

The program emphasizes robotic instrumentation, three-dimensional visualization, precision tissue handling, and minimally invasive surgical techniques using the Intuitive da Vinci Surgical System. Participants engage in guided hands-on training, dry lab exercises, and simulation-based learning to strengthen psychomotor skills, operative dexterity, and procedural efficiency.

The curriculum also focuses on operating room workflow, patient safety, teamwork, communication, and situational awareness within the robotic surgical environment. This training prepares surgeons to perform robotic gastrointestinal procedures with enhanced precision, safety, and procedural confidence.

Learning Objectives

Develop proficiency in robotic system setup, docking, and operating room workflow integration.
Build competency in robotic instrumentation, tissue handling, and precision gastrointestinal surgical techniques.
Strengthen technical skills through structured dry lab exercises and simulation-based training.
Enhance teamwork, communication, situational awareness, and patient safety practices in robotic surgical environments.

Learning Methodology

Expert-led lectures covering robotic surgery principles and gastrointestinal applications.
Structured hands-on training using the Intuitive da Vinci Surgical System.
Dry lab exercises, mannequin-based training, and simulation-based skill development.
Team-based learning sessions with guided feedback and performance assessment.

Learning Outcomes

Perform robotic system setup, docking, and console operations with confidence and efficiency.
Demonstrate improved robotic instrument control, tissue handling, and operative precision.
Apply robotic surgical principles safely during gastrointestinal procedures.
Integrate technical and non-technical skills to optimize surgical performance and patient outcomes.

Eligibility Criteria

Licensed medical graduates (MBBS or equivalent) with valid institutional or national medical registration.
Gastrointestinal Surgeons, GI Surgical Oncologists, Surgical Residents, Fellows, and practicing Consultants seeking robotic surgery training.
Basic knowledge of gastrointestinal surgical procedures and minimally invasive surgery is preferred.
Prior exposure to robotic surgery is beneficial but not mandatory.

Course Modules

Module 1 - Introduction to Robotic Program

Fundamentals of Robotic Surgery (FRS)
Overview of Robotic Gastrointestinal Surgery
Human Factors: Situational Awareness in the Robotic Operating Theatre
Human Factors: Errors and Violations
Principles of Safe Robotic Practice

Module 2 - Robot set-up

Start-Up and System Calibration
Robotic Docking Sequence
Instrumentation and System Components
Types of Retractors and Retractor Setting
Patient Cart Positioning and Port Placement
Troubleshooting and System Checks

Module 3 - Technical skills development

Dry Lab Skill Development
Retractor Setting on Mannequin
Simulation-Based Skill Development
Robotic System Familiarization
Technical Skills Refinement Exercises

Module 4 - Non-Technical Skills development

Team Training Workshop
Simulation Team Training
Surgical Briefing and Debriefing
Communication Skill Development
Team Dynamics and Collaborative Practice

Robotics in Gastrointestinal