Abstract Background Robotic surgery is increasingly adopted across general surgical units in the United Kingdom, yet training opportunities remain inconsistent. This study explored the experiences, attitudes, and perceived barriers to robotic training among General Surgery higher surgical trainees in the East of England (EoE) deanery, with the aim of identifying areas for improvement to enhance future training provision. Methods A cross-sectional mixed-methods electronic survey was distributed to all ST3–ST8 General Surgery trainees in the EoE deanery (May–August 2025). Eligible participants were in a clinically active general surgical rotation within an EoE hospital. The 27-item questionnaire examined professional background, exposure to robotic surgery, and perceptions of training. Results Of 81 eligible trainees, 48 responded (59%), with representation from all 16 hospitals, 13 of which performed robotic procedures. Almost all respondents (98%) believed that robotic surgery would become integral to general surgical practice, and 77% intended to undertake a fellowship in robotic surgery. Twenty-seven trainees were in firms performing robotic cases, with a median exposure of one operating session per week. Satisfaction with training was low (mean 3.8/10). Independent console operating was rare (7%), with limited access to simulation (23%), structured induction (17%), and robotic courses (52%). Conclusions Trainees view robotic surgery as a valuable skill, yet current training opportunities are inadequate, inequitable and show marked variation between hospitals. Priorities for improvement include national curriculum integration, equitable access to simulation and formal training courses, and expansion of dual console operating to support safe progression from bedside assistance to independent practice.
Sivarajan et al. (Sun,) studied this question.
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