Implementation of a Cross-specialty Training Program in Basic Laparoscopy

TY - JOUR

T1 - Implementation of a Cross-specialty Training Program in Basic Laparoscopy

AU - Bjerrum, Flemming

AU - Sorensen, Jette Led

AU - Thinggaard, Jette

AU - Strandbygaard, Jeanett

AU - Konge, Lars

PY - 2015/9

Y1 - 2015/9

N2 - BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Several surgical specialties use laparoscopy and share many of the same techniques and challenges, such as entry approaches, equipment, and complications. However, most basic training programs focus on a single specialty. The objective of this study was to describe the implementation of a regional cross-specialty training program for basic laparoscopy, to increase the flexibility of educational courses, and to provide a more efficient use of simulation equipment.METHODS: Using a regional training program in basic laparoscopy for gynecology as a model, we developed a cross-specialty training program for residents in surgery, gynecology, urology, and thoracic surgery. We reviewed data on training for the first year of the program and evaluated the program by using a scoring system for quality criteria for laparoscopic curricula and skills.RESULTS: We held 6 full-day theoretical courses involving 67 residents between September 1, 2013, and August 31, 2014. In the weeks following each course, residents practiced in a self-directed, distributed, and proficiency-based manner at a simulation center and in local hospital departments. A total of 57 residents completed the self-practice and a subsequent practical animal laboratory-based course. The structure of the training program was evaluated according to identified quality criteria for a skills laboratory, and the program scored 38 of a maximum 62 points.DISCUSSION: Implementation of a regional cross-specialty training program in basic laparoscopy is feasible. There are several logistic benefits of using a cross-specialty approach; however, it is important that local departments include specialty-specific components, together with clinical departmental follow-up.

AB - BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Several surgical specialties use laparoscopy and share many of the same techniques and challenges, such as entry approaches, equipment, and complications. However, most basic training programs focus on a single specialty. The objective of this study was to describe the implementation of a regional cross-specialty training program for basic laparoscopy, to increase the flexibility of educational courses, and to provide a more efficient use of simulation equipment.METHODS: Using a regional training program in basic laparoscopy for gynecology as a model, we developed a cross-specialty training program for residents in surgery, gynecology, urology, and thoracic surgery. We reviewed data on training for the first year of the program and evaluated the program by using a scoring system for quality criteria for laparoscopic curricula and skills.RESULTS: We held 6 full-day theoretical courses involving 67 residents between September 1, 2013, and August 31, 2014. In the weeks following each course, residents practiced in a self-directed, distributed, and proficiency-based manner at a simulation center and in local hospital departments. A total of 57 residents completed the self-practice and a subsequent practical animal laboratory-based course. The structure of the training program was evaluated according to identified quality criteria for a skills laboratory, and the program scored 38 of a maximum 62 points.DISCUSSION: Implementation of a regional cross-specialty training program in basic laparoscopy is feasible. There are several logistic benefits of using a cross-specialty approach; however, it is important that local departments include specialty-specific components, together with clinical departmental follow-up.

KW - Clinical Competence

KW - Curriculum

KW - Denmark

KW - General Surgery

KW - Gynecology

KW - Humans

KW - Internship and Residency

KW - Laparoscopy

KW - Program Evaluation

KW - Thoracic Surgery

KW - Urology

U2 - 10.4293/jsls.2015.00059

DO - 10.4293/jsls.2015.00059

M3 - Journal article

C2 - 26527858

SN - 1086-8089

VL - 19

SP - 1

EP - 7

JO - Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons. Journal

JF - Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons. Journal

IS - 4

M1 - e2015.00059

ER -