Research Appraisals
Evidence-based critical appraisals of the latest medical research, systematically evaluated using Oxford CEBM methodology.
Showing 4 appraisals
Journal of robotic surgery
Transfer of technical skills from virtual reality robotic simulation to non-virtual surgical performance: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Virtual Reality Robotic Surgery Simulators (VR-RSS) are widely used, but their educational value depends on whether skills acquired in virtual reality (VR) training transfer to non-virtual performance. This review evaluated whether VR training improves transferable robotic surgical skills. We searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane from inception to March 3, 2026, for randomized trials evaluating VR robotic simulator training with transfer to non-virtual settings. Screening was performed in Rayyan. Data were extracted systematically, risk of bias was assessed with RoB 2, and random-effects meta-analyses using Hedges' g were conducted in R. Eight trials were included in the review, and seven were included in meta-analysis. Sample sizes ranged from 12 to 35 participants. Although the pooled standardized mean difference (SMD) for global technical skill scores favored the VR training group, it did not reach statistical significance (g = 0.77, 95% CI -0.64-2.18; p = 0.205). Task completion time was also shorter in the VR training group, but this difference was not statistically significant (g = 0.47, 95% CI -0.35-1.29; p = 0.164). This review suggests a potential benefit of VR-based robotic simulation for transferring trained skills to non-VR environments. Future studies should include larger sample sizes and longitudinal assessments using validated metrics to better characterize these trends.
21 July 2026
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The future of surgery in space exploration
Long-duration human space missions expose astronauts to microgravity, creating unprecedented surgical risks in environments where evacuation is impossible and communication delays limit real-time intervention. Understanding the feasibility and requirements of robot-assisted surgery in space is essential to ensure crew survival and mission continuity. A literature review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and aerospace medicine databases. Studies on surgical risks in spaceflight, robotic and tele-operated surgical systems, and translational applications were identified and thematically synthesized. Microgravity-induced physiological changes complicate surgical management. Anticipated emergencies include intra-abdominal pathologies, trauma, and craniofacial injuries. Miniaturized robotic systems with tele-mentored and semi-autonomous capabilities demonstrated feasibility in simulated and orbital environments, addressing constraints related to latency, sterility, and limited crew expertise. Translational applications include improved surgical access in remote, military, and low-resource settings on Earth. However, challenges remain in system reliability, training, ethics, and resource constraints. Robotic-assisted surgery represents a mission-critical capability for deep-space exploration and transformation for terrestrial surgical care. Integrated technological, training, and ethical frameworks are required to ensure safe tele-operated surgical interventions in extreme environments, improving global equity in surgical care.
21 July 2026
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Technology-enhanced training in basic robotic surgical skills: a systematic review
Robotic surgery has seen substantial growth, however training access remains limited by resources and time-intensive credentialling pathways. Technology enhanced learning may address these barriers whilst improving training efficiency and assessment objectivity. We aimed to systematically evaluate technology-enhanced approaches to basic robotic surgical skills training. This systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines with prospective registration (OSF: V93MZ). MEDLINE (via OVID), Embase, and the Cochrane Library (CENTRAL and CDSR) were searched on 23 May 2025 without date restrictions. Technologies included virtual reality, augmented reality, sensor-based systems, video review, and performance feedback. Risk of bias was assessed using the RoB-2 and ROBINS-I tools, and certainty of evidence using GRADE. Narrative synthesis was utilised given methodological heterogeneity, with reported outcomes mapped to the Kirkpatrick model of training evaluation. Seventeen studies involving 484 participants were included (10 randomised trials, 7 prospective cohort studies; 16 single-centre). Technologies comprised virtual reality (7), sensor-based systems (5), performance feedback (3), video review (1), and augmented reality (1); no eligible artificial intelligence studies were identified. Virtual reality, utilised within bespoke robotic simulators, demonstrated accelerated learning curves, although some systems required more repetitions than traditional robotic simulator-based training. The single augmented reality study improved instrument velocity. Sensor-based force measurement devices improved force application and ergonomics. Video review improved accuracy but temporarily increased completion time. Multimodal feedback systems outperformed conventional feedback. Evidence was concentrated at Kirkpatrick level 2 (learning); one study reported only level 1 (reaction) data, with no studies reporting level 3 or 4 outcomes. Risk of bias was low in randomised studies and low-moderate in non-randomised studies. Technology-enhanced basic robotic skills training has evidence supporting improved performance outcomes, accelerated learning curves, and enhanced objective assessment capabilities. Gaps persist for basic skills training in augmented reality, artificial intelligence, and docking and setup. Standardised competency assessment frameworks are required to evaluate these rapidly progressing tools.
21 July 2026
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Emerging robotic platforms in gynecologic surgery: a systematic review.
Robotic innovation in gynecologic surgery has expanded beyond established multiport ecosystems toward single-port, modular multi-arm, transvaginal, AI-enabled, and teleoperated platforms. However, available evidence remains fragmented and unsuitable for quantitative synthesis. This systematic review evaluated emerging robotic platforms in gynecologic surgery, focusing on procedure types, outcomes, costs, and learning curves. The review was prospectively registered in PROSPERO (CRD420261360389). Eligible studies included clinical studies evaluating emerging robotic platforms in gynecologic surgery. PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched on 4 April 2026. After duplicate removal, 408 records were screened, 160 full texts assessed, and 92 studies included. Data extraction and risk of bias assessment were performed independently in duplicate. The 92 studies covered 13 platforms and were mainly retrospective single-center studies. Evidence was most extensive for da Vinci SP and HUGO RAS, with more limited but informative data for Senhance, Versius, hinotori, and KANGDUO. Evidence for other systems consisted mainly of first-in-human, pilot, or feasibility studies. Hysterectomy and sacrocolpopexy were the most frequently reported procedures. Overall, perioperative outcomes and short-term safety appeared favorable, despite limited follow-up and heterogeneous outcome definitions. Cost data were mainly available for Senhance and KANGDUO. Learning-curve evidence was strongest for da Vinci SP and HUGO RAS. Risk-of-bias was predominantly moderate. Emerging robotic platforms have demonstrated broad technical feasibility and generally acceptable short-term perioperative safety in selected gynecologic procedures, but current evidence is heterogeneous, observational, and methodologically limited. Rigorous prospective studies, standardized economic analyses, longer follow-up, and learning-curve evaluations are needed before comparative conclusions can be drawn.
23 June 2026
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