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Published on: September 11, 2021
Teaching cervical cancer surgery in low- or middle-resource countries
Laurie M Elit1, Barry Rosen, Waldo Jimenez
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada. laurie.elit@jcc.hhsc.ca
Summary
A focused training module for gynecologists can improve surgical management of early cervical cancer in low-resource settings. This intensive curriculum, using adult learning principles, enables immediate changes in clinical practice for better patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Gynecologic Oncology
- Surgical Education
- Global Health
Background:
- Increasing early-stage cervical cancer cases globally necessitates improved surgical management strategies.
- Low- and middle-resource countries face challenges in providing advanced surgical care for curable cancers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and implement an intensive teaching module for radical hysterectomy and pelvic lymphadenectomy.
- To train local gynecologists in low- and middle-resource countries to perform radical hysterectomy.
Main Methods:
- A teaching module based on adult learning principles was created by Gynaecologic Oncologists of Canada.
- The program involved a Canadian gynecologic oncologist working with local surgeons, addressing healthcare delivery issues.
- The curriculum included pre/posttests, detailed modules on surgical procedures, and hands-on training with performance assessment.
Main Results:
- The teaching module covered preoperative evaluation, cone biopsy, radical hysterectomy, pelvic lymphadenectomy, and management of surgical injuries.
- Video clips and repeated surgical procedure walkthroughs were incorporated into the training.
- The module was successfully reviewed in Mongolia and implemented in Kenya, with participant feedback incorporated.
Conclusions:
- Focused, high-intensity surgical curricula delivered by trained surgeons can lead to immediate improvements in clinical practice.
- This approach offers a vital curative surgical option for early cervical cancer management in resource-limited settings.
- The training model demonstrates potential for rapid adoption and positive impact on patient care.
