Simulation of RIRS in soft cadavers: a novel training model by the Cadaveric Research On Endourology Training (CRET)...

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Surgical Simulation
• Medical Education

Background:

• Flexible ureteroscopy (fURS) is a minimally invasive procedure for treating upper urinary tract pathologies.
• Training in fURS requires realistic models to develop proficiency in retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS).
• Cadaveric models offer a tangible platform for surgical skill acquisition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy of fresh-frozen and embalmed cadavers as training models for novice urologists in fURS.
• To evaluate the learning curve and safety of fURS in an inexperienced cohort using cadaveric simulation.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study involving 12 urologists inexperienced in fURS.
• Standardized training included theoretical lectures, video demonstrations, and hands-on practice with cadavers.
• Participant competency was assessed via pre- and post-training surveys and task completion evaluation.

Main Results:

• All participants successfully completed hands-on training tasks.
• Mean procedure time significantly decreased post-training (3.56 min to 1.76 min, p=0.008).
• No injuries to the ureteral or pelvicalyceal structures were detected; scope functionality remained intact.

Conclusions:

• Soft human cadavers serve as a highly effective simulation model for fURS training.
• The anatomical fidelity of cadavers closely replicates living human tissues, facilitating realistic endourologic practice.
• This simulation model is optimal for developing essential fURS skills in urologists.