Expert consensus on a standardized training curriculum for robotic gastrectomy for gastric cancer using Delphi process

Abstract

Abstract Background With the widespread use of surgical robots, surgeons are performing increasing number of robotic gastrectomy (RG) cases. Establishing a standardized training curriculum (TC) is a pressing need for the safe implementation of RG for gastric cancer. This paper aims to obtain an experts’ consensus on a standardized TC for RG through the Delphi process. Methods An expert panel involving 10 expert gastric surgeons formulated a consensus on the TC of RG for gastric cancer. A three-round survey using the Delphi method was conducted to reach an agreement regarding the essential domains of training. A cutoff value of 80% was set to determine a consensus on each question. Results The expert panel reached a consensus on the following points. A TC for RG should be divided into stages, and trainees should be evaluated and certified before proceeding to the next stage. The basic TC should include basic e-learning, simulation-based training, and case observation, whereas the advanced TC should include learning expert videos, and modular console training. Simulator-based evaluation and certification are necessary before performing actual RG, and the first 3–5 cases should be supervised by proctors. To become independent surgeons, they should be certified by reviewing surgical videos. In addition, when using new robotic systems, even experts should undergo technical evaluation and certification. Conclusion Through consensus building by the expert panel, a foundational concept was developed for an RG TC and certification. Surgeons learning RG should benefit from a highly effective modular TC and the guidance of certified proctors.