Validation of a structured intensive laparoscopic course for basic and advanced gynecologic skills training. Issue 2 (May 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Enciso, Silvia; Díaz-Güemes, Idoia; Pérez-Medina, Tirso; Zapardiel, Ignacio; de Santiago, Javier; Usón, Jesús; Sánchez-Margallo, Francisco M.
• Is Part Of: International journal of gynaecology and obstetrics. Volume 133:Issue 2(2016:May)
• Page Start: 241
• Page End: 244
• Publication Date: 2016-05
• Subjects: Assessment -- Laparoscopy -- Skills -- Training -- Virtual reality simulation; Gynecology -- Periodicals; Obstetrics -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; 618
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijgo.2015.09.011
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0020-7292

Abstract

Abstract: Objective: To describe and validate a gynecologic laparoscopic-surgery training model. Methods: The present prospective observational study was conducted at the Minimally Invasive Surgery Centre Jesús Usón, Cáceres, Spain, between January 2011 and June 2013. Novice gynecologists attended a 3-day course including simulation and animal training. Participants' were assessed before and after training using a virtual reality simulator; during training, gynecologists were timed and assessed using an Objective and Structured Assessment of Technical Skills score. The virtual reality simulator-assessed skills were eye–hand coordination, hand–hand coordination, and transference of objects. Participants were asked to rate various elements of the training program using a five-point scale. Results: The study enrolled 21 gynecologists. Participants performed all tasks faster ( P < 0.001), using fewer movements ( P < 0.05 for left and right instruments), after receiving training. During participants' final animal and simulator training sessions, completion times were reduced ( P < 0.001) and assessment scores ( P < 0.001) increased for all techniques and tasks. Participants considered suturing to be the most useful aspect of the basic-skills training (4.95 ± 0.22); animal training received a higher rating than simulator training for practicing new techniques (4.81 ± 0.40 vs 4.05 ± 0.86) and maintaining skills (4.76 ± 0.54 vs 3.95 ± 0.97). Conclusion: Combining proficiency-based physical simulation and animal training models under expert guidance is an efficient model for improving basic and advanced laparoscopic skills. Suturing and animal models were the preferred training components.