The future of surgical simulation training in the era of artificial intelligence: multidisciplinary perspectives from NASCE, DSSH, and SESAM

Abstract

Background: Healthcare simulation is evolving rapidly, yet its role in surgical education remains uneven. During the 9th NASCE (Network of Accredited Clinical Skills Centers of Europe) conference at Orsi Academy (Ghent, Belgium), SESAM (Society in Europe for Simulation Applied to Medicine), DSSH (Dutch Society for Simulation in Healthcare), and NASCE convened a multidisciplinary roundtable, “Healthcare Simulation 2050: Building a Better Future Together”, to explore future directions, challenges, and opportunities in surgical simulation.

Methods: Conference faculty submitted reflections in advance to inform the discussion. The session was audio-recorded (with consent), transcribed verbatim, and analyzed by two reviewers using rapid qualitative thematic analysis with inductive coding. Themes were derived from both pre-meeting inputs and live discussions, aiming to synthesize perspectives rather than reach formal consensus.

Results: Twenty-four multidisciplinary participants contributed, including surgeons, trainees, engineers, and industry and society representatives. Many participants expressed the view that simulation should precede clinical exposure, ideally through proficiency-based progression, to enhance patient safety and standardize training. Participants identified inequities in access, limited curricular integration, and insufficient validation linking simulation to clinical outcomes. Artificial intelligence (AI)-driven coaching, adaptive learning, and global collaboration were viewed as promising but requiring stronger evidence. Human factors, mentorship, empathy, and equity, were emphasized as essential for sustainable, patient-centered implementation.

Conclusions: The discussion highlights a shared vision for surgical simulation: balancing innovation with inclusivity, and technology with human mentorship. While AI and personalized learning are expected to transform training within the next decade, simulation must remain grounded in patient safety, validation, and equitable access. These perspectives reflect emerging expert opinions from a structured multidisciplinary discussion, and do not constitute a formally validated guideline or consensus statement.

Keywords

Simulation training / surgical education / proficiency-based education / artificial intelligence / telemedicine / empathy / health equity / patient safety

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