Resident Satisfaction with Laparoscopic Training in Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND AND

OBJECTIVES

Resident satisfaction with laparoscopic training is a proxy for program quality, yet national data from Saudi Arabia are limited. We assessed satisfaction and its relationship with self-rated laparoscopic skill among surgical residents.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional questionnaire study (January-June 2025) across training centers in Saudi Arabia including residents in general surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatric surgery, and urology. A composite skills score (0-25; tissue handling, autonomy, bimanual dexterity, depth perception, suturing) was calculated; internal consistency was evaluated. Associations between skills and trainee factors were tested using t-tests and analysis of variance with post hoc comparisons (two-sided, significance set at 0.05).

RESULTS

Among 203 residents, self-rated ability clustered at intermediate levels, with suturing the weakest domain. Higher composite scores were associated with seniority, more frequent exposure (at least twice weekly), overall program satisfaction, and operative confidence. Sex, region, hospital type, and simple simulator access showed no association.

CONCLUSION

In this national cohort, self-rated laparoscopic skill was intermediate with a clear suturing gap. Skills tracked with practice frequency and learner confidence and satisfaction, rather than mere access to equipment. Programs should embed protected, twice-weekly, proficiency-based practice with coaching and objective assessment to accelerate autonomy and standardize competence.