Evaluation of robotic exposure among gynecological surgeons: results of survey from the young European advocates of robotic surgery (YEARS)

Abstract

Study objective: To identify factors associated with higher self-perceived confidence in performing robotic surgery among early-career gynecologic surgeons, and to assess satisfaction with current surgical activity among young consultants. A cross-sectional survey consisting of a 28-item online questionnaire was developed and disseminated through the social media channels of the Young European Advocates of Robotic Surgery (YEARS) and the Society of European Robotic Gynaecological Surgery (SERGS). Eligible participants included gynecologists with exposure to robotic surgery who were either (1) still in specialty training or (2] within three years of completing their postgraduate training or fellowship. The questionnaire collected sociodemographic information, details on surgical experience, access to robotic platforms, and self-perceived confidence in different surgical approaches. Main results: A total of 81 respondents completed the survey. Among the 63 surgeons with access to robotic surgery at their institutions, 29 reported high self-perceived confidence and 36 reported lower confidence. Factors associated with higher confidence included age > 35 years (51.8% vs. 33.3%; p < 0.001) and having received structured robotic training through a fellowship or industry-sponsored course (40.7% vs. 19.4%; p = 0.017). Departments performing >= 55 robotic procedures per year showed a greater likelihood of hosting surgeons with high confidence. Finally, age > 35 years and access to at least one dedicated robotic operating day per week weres independently associated with higher confidence. Conclusion: Self-perceived confidence in robotic surgery among early-career gynecologic surgeons appears to be associated with age, and regular access to robotic operating time. Summation: Being older than 35 years and performing robotic surgery at least once weekly are associated with greater confidence in the robotic approach, emphasizing the importance of experience and exposure.