Current training landscape for novice robotic surgeons: an international investigative survey by the Junior-ERUS/Young academic urologists (YAU) robotics in urology working group

Category	Detail
Condition	Robotic surgical training for novice surgeons
Key Mechanisms	Structured education programs including simulator-based training, dry/wet-labs, and hands-on operating theatre experience with dual or single-console setups
Target Population	Novice robotic surgeons seeking training in urology
Care Setting	Robotic surgery training centers within urology departments across multiple international institutions

Majority of institutions offer robotic training with 82.5% respondents indicating training possibilities at their facilities.
Training modalities include simulator-based training (89%), dual-console hands-on training (65%), dry-labs (39%), and wet-labs (16%).
Annual institutional robotic caseloads are high, with 41% performing over 500 cases per year, providing ample exposure for trainees.

Not applicable—focus is on training program assessment rather than clinical diagnosis.

Implement expert-guided, standardized robotic training curricula including simulators, dry/wet-labs, and operating room exposure.
Offer training programs that may include fellowships fully devoted to robotic education or combined with other clinical/surgical tasks.

Regular assessment of training program structure, caseload, and case-mix to ensure adequate exposure and skill development for trainees.
Use surveys and feedback mechanisms to continuously improve training quality and transparency.

Lack of structured training and inadequate caseload may compromise surgical quality and patient safety.
Limited transparency and access to training centers can hinder novice surgeons’ career development.

Not applicable—focus on surgical training rather than patient treatment.

Not applicable.

Develop and maintain a comprehensive, standardized robotic training curriculum with expert guidance.
Incorporate simulator-based training and dry/wet-lab practice to enhance surgical skills before live surgery.
Provide hands-on training in the operating room using dual-console systems to ensure patient safety and effective learning.
Facilitate access to training programs for external applicants to broaden educational opportunities.
Regularly update and validate training programs through surveys and expert feedback to meet evolving educational needs.

Clinical Scorecard: Global Assessment of Training Opportunities for Beginner Robotic Surgeons: Findings from the Junior-ERUS/Young Academic Urologists (YAU) Robotics in Urology Working Group