Laparoscopic skill laboratory in urological surgery: tools and methods for resident training

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Surgical Education

Background:

• Laparoscopic surgery offers patient benefits but requires distinct skills from open surgery.
• On-the-job training in operating rooms can prolong procedures and potentially harm patients.
• Structured training programs are essential to mitigate risks associated with learning laparoscopic techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline a laparoscopic training program for urological residents at Hospital das Clinicas, Sao Paulo Medical School.
• To identify urological procedures suitable for dry and wet lab simulation.
• To critically evaluate the cost-effectiveness of an advanced laparoscopic skills laboratory.

Main Methods:

• The training program utilizes virtual simulators, manual simulators, and porcine models for hands-on practice.
• First-year residents focus on virtual and manual simulation, assisting senior residents with laparoscopic equipment.
• Second-year residents dedicate significant time to performing laparoscopic procedures on porcine models.

Main Results:

• Urology residents performed an average of 120 procedures over a ten-week training period.
• Commonly practiced procedures included total nephrectomy (30%), bladder suture (30%), and partial nephrectomy (10%).
• The training resulted in quicker procedures and reduced patient morbidity.

Conclusions:

• A laparoscopic skills laboratory is an effective method for acquiring technical proficiency.
• The program successfully trained urology residents in essential laparoscopic skills.