Training in Uniportal Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery

Area of Science:

• Thoracic Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Surgery

Background:

• Uniportal video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) is gaining global traction as a less traumatic surgical approach for lung procedures.
• The technique's complexity necessitates specialized training to ensure safety and therapeutic efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the importance of specific training for uniportal VATS.
• To discuss novel strategies and the need for standardization in VATS training.

Main Methods:

• Review of current training strategies for uniportal VATS.
• Emphasis on interactive learning technologies, simulators, preceptorships, and proctorships.
• Discussion on the role of surgical societies in standardization and credentialing.

Main Results:

• Novel strategies are vital for effective uniportal VATS training.
• Standardization, governance, and credentialing are crucial for patient safety.
• Professional societies should lead the development of unified training protocols.

Conclusions:

• Comprehensive and standardized training is imperative for safe and effective uniportal VATS.
• A collaborative approach involving surgical societies is needed to govern and credential VATS training programs.
• Ensuring patient safety and academic accountability in VATS requires structured educational frameworks.