New surgical procedures in postgraduate medical education

An outstanding role in developing the recent nation-wide postgraduate accreditation process in Hungary has been played by University Medical School of Pécs. GRADUATE TRAINING: By providing opportunities for students to practice basic surgical interventions on living tissues, the Department of Experimental Surgery has served as a bridge between theoretical and clinical phases of their education. Students benefit from the infrastructure of surgical training we provide, including even access to microsurgery and laparoscopic techniques. POSTGRADUATE TRAINING: One category of postgraduate training offered by our department is further training of young physicians in special branches of surgery, with emphasis on microsurgery and laparoscopy. The other category is in the form of special courses. A great number of applicants from across Hungary highlight the need for running such courses. Throughout Europe such training is available only at very high prices. With the invaluable assistance of Prof. Z. Szabo (San Francisco, USA), we have been able to create the right environment and offer expert technical training in laparoscopic procedures since 1995. We face new challenges in the year 1999. As part of the new resident training system, Department of Experimental Surgery will provide not only training in traditional surgical procedures, but also include training in the most up to date techniques. Organizing such sources, apart from financial backing, requires genuine professional commitment.