Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 18, 2026

08:21
Utilizing a 3D Printed Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication Model to Shorten a Resident's Learning Curve
Published on: August 15, 2025
Rural general surgery training: the Gundersen Lutheran approach
Thomas H Cogbill1, Benjamin T Jarman
1Surgery Residency, Gundersen Lutheran Medical Foundation, 1900 South Avenue, La Crosse, WI 54601, USA. thcogbil@gundluth.org
The Surgical Clinics of North America
|December 1, 2009
Summary
Gundersen Lutheran Medical Foundation trains general surgery residents for rural practice through core surgical skills, specialized electives, research, and practice management education. This comprehensive approach ensures graduates are well-prepared for diverse rural surgical demands.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Education
- Rural Health
- Medical Training
Background:
- General surgery residents require specific training for rural practice.
- Existing residency programs may not adequately prepare surgeons for rural settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline a comprehensive residency training model for rural general surgery.
- To detail methods for equipping residents with skills for rural practice.
Main Methods:
- Core training in general and minimally invasive surgery.
- Development of additional technical skill sets.
- Inclusion of rural surgery electives and practice management education.
- Emphasis on outcomes-based research and post-residency graduate support.
Main Results:
- The described approach provides a robust framework for rural surgical training.
- Residents gain diverse skills applicable to rural practice.
Conclusions:
- This model effectively prepares general surgery residents for successful rural practice.
- Sustained engagement with graduates enhances long-term success in rural settings.

