Validating Basic Robotic Surgical Skills: A Proficiency Test for the Versius Surgical Robot Using a Virtual Reality Simulator

In assessing competency for the Versius surgical robot, researchers developed a virtual reality simulator-based test. Participants, categorized by experience, underwent exercises on the Versius trainer. Discriminatory analysis revealed parameters distinguishing novices and experienced surgeons but not intermediates. Test-retest reliability analysis showed moderate reliability for selected parameters. Non-compensatory pass/fail levels were defined, indicating novices’ failure and most experienced surgeons’ success in the identified exercises. This marks a crucial step in establishing a proficiency-based training program for the Versius system.