[The pig model for the laparoscopic antireflux surgery training]

Area of Science:

• Surgical Training
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Animal Models

Context:

• Laparoscopic antireflux surgery (AR) for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) requires specialized surgical skills.
• Optimal functional outcomes depend on adequate training for surgical teams.
• A need exists for effective training models in laparoscopic AR procedures.

Purpose:

• To evaluate the utility of a pig model for training in laparoscopic antireflux surgery.
• To describe the laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication technique in pigs.
• To assess the advantages and disadvantages of using pigs as a training model.

Summary:

• This study utilized 16 pigs (20-25 kg) to assess a pig model for laparoscopic antireflux surgery training.
• The model provided clear, human-similar anatomy and realistic surgical conditions, including anesthesia and live animals.
• Key findings include a detailed description of the laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication in pigs and an evaluation of the model's training efficacy.

Impact:

• The pig model offers a practical and effective platform for surgical trainees to develop skills in laparoscopic antireflux surgery.
• This training approach can enhance surgical team proficiency, potentially leading to improved patient outcomes in GERD treatment.
• The study highlights the benefits of animal models in simulating real surgical environments for complex laparoscopic procedures.