Foundations of Robotic Surgery

In this module you will hear from the Founder Professor Tony Costello, & Dr's Raj Nair and Caroline Dowling on why IMRA was formed and the IMRA vision for robotic education.

Dr Daniel Costello will then introduce you to the IMRA Education Method including information on robotic vendor training, VR and 3D technology in robotic surgery.

Professor Costello details the history of surgical robotics in Australia and internationally. He provides an overview of the key technological features and some of the advantages of surgical robots. He describes current and projected robotic surgery market including emerging robotic systems expected to enter the healthcare system in the next few years.

Dr Phil Dundee will introduce you to the da Vinci Xi surgical robot. He will provide a lecture overview of the da Vinci robot system features. You will then watch instructional videos on port handling, robot docking and instrument insertion.

In this module you will hear from Dr Sam Costello on perioperative and anaesthetic considerations for robotic surgery including patient position and physiology.

Dr Justin Peters will introduce you to the da Vinci Xi surgical console. He will provide a lecture overview of the da Vinci robot system features. You will then watch instructional videos ergonomics and instrument handling.

In this module you will learn about basic robotic instruments: how they work, how they are different to laparoscopic instruments, what tissues they should be used for, and when to use them. You will also be introduced to basic robotic skills, such as suturing, knot tying, and how to dissect tissue and create planes. We will also discuss emergency undocking in this module.

Presented by Dr Raj Nair, Urologist – Guys Hospital London

Most robotic surgeons begin their training at the bedside where they develop their laparoscopic skills, gain anatomical knowledge and learn the steps of procedures. Understanding the mechanics and “buttonology” of robotic surgical machines is a key component of becoming a robotic surgeon. These complex skills are learned at the bedside and are critical for safe operating.

In this module you will hear from a group of simulation training experts from around the world including Dr John Lenihan – Mimic Technologies, United States & Assoc Prof Ahmed Ghazi – University of Rochester, United States

Topics include Shadow learning, VR simulation, Artificial intelligence, synthetic organ models and new metrics.

In this module Captain Matthew Gray discusses human factors and non-technical skills, and describes the parallels between robotic surgery and aviation training. He uses his vast experience to give three lectures on the intangibles of safe aviation. There is much to be learnt from the aviation area when it comes to safe robotic surgery.

In our IMRA facility we will house different robots from different vendors. The video and instructions will help you navigate through the relevant online learning material to prepare you prior to coming in to the laboratory.

This module is designed to give you the preparation you need prior to coming into IMRA for the Basic Simulation Skills course.