Validation of a structured intensive laparoscopic course for basic and advanced gynecologic skills training. Issue 2 (28th December 2015)

• 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: 2015-12-28
• 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.