Dundee expands surgical simulation training for medical students

The new approach will see greater use of the University’s Surgical Skills Centre at Ninewells Hospital, giving students increased access to hands-on learning through laparoscopic, robotic and endoscopic simulation. The initiative is designed to better prepare students for time in operating theatres, where opportunities for direct experience have become more limited in recent years.

By embedding simulation more fully within the fourth-year surgical block, the Faculty of Health aims to strengthen students’ practical skills and confidence before they enter clinical environments, allowing them to make the most of their time in theatre.

Mr Ross Dolan, Senior Clinical Lecturer and Honorary Consultant Surgeon at the University of Dundee, said, “The new surgical simulation component of the undergraduate curriculum allows students to improve their practical surgical skills. This makes use of the unique facilities that the University of Dundee such as the Surgical Skills Centre to bring surgical training to the centre of the undergraduate curriculum.”

Students will take part in structured sessions using laparoscopic and robotic simulators, developing core skills such as instrument handling and camera control. The programme also introduces advanced simulation experiences, including colonoscopy, gastroscopy and cystoscopy, alongside innovative teaching methods such as live-link robotic surgery, where students can observe procedures in real time and interact with surgeons.

Dr Joanne Sloan, MBChB Lead at the University of Dundee, said, “We are delighted to bring this innovative teaching into the MBChB curriculum, marking an exciting step forward in how we prepare our students for the future of medicine. Simulation-based training empowers learners to build confidence, practise essential surgical skills while learning in a safe and supportive environment. By giving every student the opportunity to engage with core surgical techniques, we hope not only to strengthen their practical abilities, but also to ignite a passion for surgery.”

Students will also have access to open simulation sessions throughout their surgical block, supporting independent practice, while a final consolidation session will reinforce key techniques such as suturing and wound management.

Lewis Blenkinsop, Honorary Clinical Fellow (Teaching) at the University of Dundee, added, “By giving students hands-on time with a da Vinci robotic console we show them not just how surgery is conducted now but how the field will develop as they progress through undergraduate and higher training.”

Gill Keith, Co-Director of Dundee Institute of Healthcare Simulation (DIHS) said, “The DIHS Surgical Skills Centre is delighted to support the delivery of laparoscopic, endoscopic and robotic simulation within the undergraduate curriculum. 

“By integrating these technologies into early medical training, we are enabling students to develop essential practical skills in a safe, supportive and innovative learning environment.”