Using videography to teach retropubic space anatomy and surgical technique

This report describes an innovative use of videography in teaching retropubic space anatomy and surgery. After the standard abdominal incision has been made, the second surgical assistant places a gynecologic laparoscope, fitted with an endoscopic camera, into the retropubic space and guides the laparoscope documenting the anatomical landmarks and surgical repair as they are shown by the surgeon. All members of the operating team can see the procedures on a color monitor in real time. The videotapes can be edited later to produce teaching films. Since 1986, this technique has been used in 30 patients with no intraoperative complications and no postoperative retropubic space infections.