The Role of Simulation in General Surgery Residency: Advancing Technical Proficiency and Clinical Confidence

Authors

• Matthew A. Daniel, Grand Strand Medical CenterFollow
• Alyssa McMandon, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine-Carolinas CampusFollow
• Rachel Daley, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine-Carolinas CampusFollow
• Andrew Gustetic, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine-Carolinas CampusFollow
• Alexis Howarth, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine-Carolinas CampusFollow
• Meghana Jacob, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine-Carolinas CampusFollow
• Holden Lewis, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine-Carolinas CampusFollow
• Kushali Patel, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine-Carolinas CampusFollow
• Taylor Locklear, Grand Strand Medical CenterFollow
• Saptarshi Biswas, Grand Strand Medical CenterFollow

Keywords

simulation based training; SBT; simulation training; general surgery; robotic surgical procedures; virtual reality; laparoscopy; internship and residency; curriculum; review

Disciplines

Medical Education | Surgery

Abstract

Surgical training has changed significantly over the past several decades, largely due to advances in technology. After the introduction of laparoscopic and robotic surgery into residency programs, simulation-based training (SBT) has become an important addition to surgical education. Simulation-based training offers a safe and structured environment to practice skills, receive feedback, and develop technical and non-technical abilities. While its benefits are well recognized, wider use of SBT continues to face challenges, including high costs, limited faculty availability, and time constraints within residency schedules. New technologies such as artificial intelligence, virtual and augmented reality, and standardized simulation frameworks may help address these barriers and further improve training. This review outlines the history, current applications, and future directions of SBT, highlighting its role in improving surgical education and patient care.

Recommended Citation

Daniel, Matthew A.; McMandon, Alyssa; Daley, Rachel; Gustetic, Andrew; Howarth, Alexis; Jacob, Meghana; Lewis, Holden; Patel, Kushali; Locklear, Taylor; and Biswas, Saptarshi (2026) "The Role of Simulation in General Surgery Residency: Advancing Technical Proficiency and Clinical Confidence," HCA Healthcare Journal of Medicine: Vol. 7: Iss. 2, Article 17.
DOI: 10.36518/2689-0216.2394
Available at: https://scholarlycommons.hcahealthcare.com/hcahealthcarejournal/vol7/iss2/17