Educational innovation: mobile applications as complementary tools in the training of plastic surgery residents.

[PURPOSE] To identify and describe mobile applications that can serve as complementary tools in the education of plastic surgery residents.

[METHODS] A structured literature review was conducted across MEDLINE, EMBASE, ERIC, Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS), and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) databases. Search strategies used Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms and relevant keywords. Additional searches were performed in the App Store and Google Play to identify mobile applications related to plastic surgery education. Inclusion criteria covered studies and applications directly linked to residency training in plastic surgery.

[RESULTS] Fourteen articles met eligibility criteria, and 18 mobile applications specifically related to plastic surgery education were identified. The majority was freely available and addressed topics such as surgical simulation, flap design, anatomy, and procedural guidance. Apps in English predominated across platforms.

[CONCLUSION] Mobile applications represent valuable complementary resources for plastic surgery training, supporting both theoretical learning and technical development. Their structured integration into residency curricula could enhance academic and clinical performance among residents.