Photovoice as a Methodology in Obesity Research: A Scoping Review.

Robotic surgery has rapidly expanded within the field of visceral and gastrointestinal (GI) surgery, which comprises disciplines including general, upper and lower GI, hepato-pancreato-biliary (HPB), endocrine, and bariatric surgery. The adoption of robotics has reshaped surgical practice, team dynamics, and the educational needs of trainees [–], driven by improvements in ergonomics, enhanced visualisation, and refined dexterity that facilitate complex minimally invasive procedures [–]. These advantages may potentially improve surgical quality and oncological outcomes for certain procedures [–]. Robotic systems are established in elective surgical practice globally, and are also progressively being introduced within the emergency setting [–]. However, the integration of robotic surgery has not been accompanied by the development of standardised surgical training programmes. Current approaches to robotic training remain variable across GI surgery, with a lack of standardisation in bedside-to-console progression, case-volume expectations, and assessment methods [, ]. In many hospitals, access to robotic platforms can be restricted by cost, system availability, or limited faculty expertise, who themselves required to complete their proficiency-gain curve. Furthermore, training often relies on industry-led programmes for specialities and sporadic courses and individual fellowships for residents rather than structured proficiency-based pathways and accreditation [, ]. As a result, GI surgical residents often report fragmented or insufficient exposure to robotic procedures, leading to differences in experience and progression to independent practice [, ]. A standardised, competency-based approach to robotic training in GI surgery is essential. Structured training curricula have been shown to enhance skill acquisition, facilitate progression along the learning curve, and provide a robust evidence base for credentialing and independent practice [–]. Despite growing international experience, there is currently no consensus amongst surgical speciality boards and professional societies on the training, assessment, and certification of GI trainees in robotic surgery.