Mind the Gap: A Scoping Literature Review and Thematic Analysis to Understand the Barriers to Using Technical Skills Simulation in Surgical Training
Siddharth A., Aitken D., Higham H.
Purpose: To identify barriers to implementing technical skills simulation in surgical training. Methods: A scoping literature review was conducted in September 2024 by searching Medline and EMBASE databases using predefined terms. The included studies were thematically analysed to understand the barriers to implementing technical skills simulation for surgical training. Results: Of the 201 studies identified, 20 met inclusion criteria, representing diverse global regions and using quantitative (n = 13), qualitative (n = 4), and review (n = 3) methodologies. Six key interrelated barriers were identified: (1) limited faculty availability and support, (2) inadequate simulation space, (3) lack of technical staff, (4) funding constraints, (5) insufficient trainee time and engagement, and (6) absence of long-term sustainability planning. Conclusion: Implementation of technical skills simulation in surgical training faces six interrelated barriers spanning faculty, infrastructure, staffing, funding, trainee engagement, and long-term strategy. Addressing these challenges requires coordinated efforts in faculty development, curriculum reform, and strategic resource planning, alongside a cultural shift to embed sustainable simulation in surgical education.