Laparoscopic left lateral sectionectomy as a training procedure for surgeons learning laparoscopic hepatectomy

Area of Science:

• Hepatobiliary Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Surgical Education

Background:

• Laparoscopic liver resection is underutilized due to limited surgical experience and training.
• Developing effective training methods is crucial for expanding laparoscopic hepatectomy procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility and safety of an improved laparoscopic left lateral sectionectomy (LLLS) as a training tool for novice surgeons.
• To compare the outcomes of LLLS performed by expert surgeons before and after adopting a standardized technique, and by junior surgeons in training.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 24 LLLS procedures.
• Patients divided into three groups: expert surgeons pre-2008 (Group A), expert surgeons post-2008 with standardized technique (Group B), and junior surgeons in training (Group C).

Main Results:

• Median operative time was significantly reduced in Groups B and C compared to Group A.
• No significant differences observed in blood loss or hospital stay across groups.
• Groups B and C experienced no conversions to open surgery or post-operative complications.

Conclusions:

• The standardized LLLS technique is a safe and feasible method for training surgeons in laparoscopic hepatectomy.
• The procedure effectively facilitates surgical skill acquisition for junior surgeons without compromising patient safety.