Validity and efficacy of biotissue models for psychomotor skill acquisition in abdominal Surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION: Surgical simulation is increasingly central to structured training in minimally invasive and robotic surgery. Biotissue models are emerging as potential tools for psychomotor skill acquisition. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis identified studies evaluating biotissue or 3D models for psychomotor training in abdominal surgery. RESULTS: Thirty-one studies including 574 learners were analysed. Repeated practice significantly reduced operative time (-7.5 min, p < 0.0001) and improved Objective Struscutred Assesment of Tecnhincal Skills (OSATS) scores (+4.41 points, p < 0.0001). Experts completed biotissue tasks 50.18 min faster than novices (p < 0.0001), supporting construct validity. CONCLUSION: Biotissue models demonstrate construct validity and improve psychomotor performance. Their integration into structured curricula may represent a realistic and cost-effective alternative for laparoscopic and robotic surgical training.