Training the Next Generation of Future Surgical Residents: A Scoping Review and Proposal for an Undergraduate Curriculum From the Italian Polispecialistic Society of Young Surgeons
Abstract
Aim
The transition from medical school to surgical residency is marked by a persistent gap between theoretical instruction and clinical readiness. In Italy, variability in training programs across centers creates persistent gaps in residents’ medical education. Scientific societies are asked to identify current training gaps and define the core competencies required for effective surgical training. We propose an undergraduate curriculum to support last-year medical students in Italy.
Methods
A scoping review of the literature focusing on structured surgical curricula for undergraduate medical students was conducted. A suggested “curriculum” was introduced at the 2025 Congress of the Italian Polispecialistic Society of Young Surgeons (SPIGC) in Bari, Italy.
Results
The SPIGC curriculum includes seven domains: (1) soft skills: communication, informed consent, and interdisciplinary collaboration; (2) clinical and diagnostic skills: outpatient clinic management and perioperative care; (3) hygiene, prevention, healthcare systems; (4) technical skills; (5) emergency and trauma surgery; (6) perioperative management, integrating Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols, nutritional assessment, and infections; (7) evidence-based medicine and recommendations. The SPIGC curriculum highlights the importance of simulation labs, hands-on workshops, and online learning, while providing clear pathways for fellowships or masters. It also introduces artificial intelligence (AI) systems as a modern learning tool, while highlighting the importance of their safe and responsible use.
Conclusions
The SPIGC curriculum may provide a structured plan to improve surgical education for medical students in Italy and to align it with international standards. Its acceptability and impact on training quality and patient outcomes remain to be evaluated through future consensus and prospective studies.
