Surgeons as co-creators: the SuFI model for embedding innovation in surgical education

Abstract

While the traditional apprenticeship model in surgical training remains valuable, it often underutilizes the surgeon’s potential as a co-creator of solutions to pressing clinical challenges. As surgical device development increasingly emphasizes locally relevant and immediate problem-solving issues, innovation in surgical education is no longer optional but an essential component of modern training. This commentary introduces the Surgeons for Innovation (SuFI) program, a nonprofit collaborative program spearheaded by surgeons, researchers, and engineering teams. Designed as a structured yet adaptable model, SuFI integrates innovation training directly into surgical education in India. The program fosters collaboration among surgeons, researchers, and engineers to co-develop effective, and scalable medical devices of relevance to the local and global users. Its framework is built on four pillars:
(1) design conceptualization
(2) access to incubators
(3) regulatory approvals and
(4) a repository of problem statements.
Through this approach, SuFI will successfully guide surgeon–engineer teams from problem identification to prototype development, patenting, and market launch of effective, patient-centered devices inspired by real surgical needs. By positioning surgeons as co-creators rather than passive end-users, SuFI strengthens the national innovation ecosystem and aligns with calls to institutionalize innovation within medical curricula. This model offers a potential blueprint for advancing surgical education, particularly in resource-constrained settings.