Scaling robotic surgery: the role, responsibilities and challenges of robotic proctorship in colorectal surgery

Area of Science:

• Surgical Technology
• Medical Education

Background:

• Robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) adoption in colorectal procedures is increasing.
• Robotic proctors are essential for training surgeons in RAS.
• Current understanding of proctor training, roles, and challenges is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the experiences, challenges, and training approaches of robotic colorectal surgery proctors.
• To identify areas for improvement in robotic proctoring frameworks.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study utilizing focus groups with UK and Ireland-based robotic colorectal surgery proctors.
• Thematic analysis of data using NVivo software.
• Ten expert robotic surgeons participated, mostly high-volume trainers with extensive experience.

Main Results:

• Eight key themes emerged: proctor selection, responsibilities, training, accreditation, challenges, industry partnerships, emerging technologies, and support.
• Robotic proctoring is vital for RAS adoption but faces training and support gaps.
• Proctors often work with Intuitive Surgical platforms and have significant training experience.

Conclusions:

• Robotic proctoring is essential for scaling RAS adoption.
• Significant gaps exist in current training frameworks and support systems for proctors.
• Standardized guidelines and professional support are critical for consistent, quality, and safe robotic surgical training.