SIMULATION, VIRTUAL REALITY, AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN PEDIATRIC SURGICAL TRAINING: CURRENT GAPS AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS

Training in pediatric surgery presents unique challenges due to small patient populations, anatomical variability, ethical constraints, and the high level of technical precision required. Traditional apprenticeship-based training models, while historically effective, are increasingly insufficient to meet modern educational and patient safety demands. In recent years, simulation, virtual reality (VR), and artificial intelligence (AI) have emerged as promising tools to supplement surgical education. However, most existing technologies are developed for adult surgery and lack pediatric-specific design, validation, and outcome correlation. This article reviews the current role of simulation, VR, and AI in pediatric surgical training, critically examines existing gaps in their development and implementation, and outlines future directions for research and integration. Emphasis is placed on the need for child-specific anatomical modeling, standardized curricula, objective assessment tools, and equitable access to training technologies. Addressing these gaps is essential to ensure that technological innovation translates into meaningful improvements in pediatric surgical competence and patient outcomes.