[Courses in microsurgical techniques in France and abroad]

The objective of this work was to determine the state of current training programs for microsurgery in France and abroad. Our survey of microsurgery training programs determined the registration volume, program contents, and number of students in France, and looked at registration volume and teaching time for programs abroad. Data were obtained from the Internet, university administration, those responsible for university diploma programs, and students. There were 18 university diploma programs in microsurgery in France. The average list price was €1,129 for an average of 19 hours of theoretical training and 100 hours of practice. Evaluation methods varied, but all required at least vascular anastomosis in rats. In 2011-2012, 148 students were enrolled and 126 graduated (85% passing rate). Abroad, 16 basic courses were listed in the USA, Europe and Asia. Nine advanced courses were offered. The average price was $1,346 for 36 hours of practice in the basic courses and $1,955 for over 50 hours of training in advanced courses. None of these courses gave out a diploma. Our results show that in France, university diploma programs in microsurgery are heterogeneous and the French College should consider updating them. Globally, a study is underway by the International Microsurgical Simulation Society.