Robotic surgery: Simulation and training

Surgical simulation is a topic that has enormous potential and offers to usher in a new era of surgical training. Historically simulators were limited to the physical world until the advent of computers, which allow for new paradigms for practicing skills and procedures critical for successful medical practice. Many challenges need to be overcome to create a realistic environment for the trainee. The full impact of simulation has not been reached in regards to shifting the current training motif for medical students, residents, and surgeons, but it has spurred interest into developing simulators that can change the current training model. The degree of integration and limitations of simulators are two topics being debated that will play a role in molding the direction of surgical simulation.