Teaching uniportal VATS in Coruña

Area of Science:

• Thoracic Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Techniques

Background:

• Uniportal video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) represents a significant advancement in thoracic surgical procedures.
• Many thoracic surgeons express interest in adopting uniportal VATS but lack clear training pathways.
• Uncertainty exists regarding the optimal methods for acquiring proficiency in the uniportal approach.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce specialized wet lab courses designed for thoracic surgeons to learn uniportal VATS.
• To provide a structured learning environment for surgeons to gain initial experience with the uniportal approach.
• To offer training under the direct supervision of the inventor of the uniportal VATS technique.

Main Methods:

• Didactic sessions covering the principles and techniques of uniportal VATS.
• Observational learning opportunities to witness expert application of the approach.
• Hands-on skills lab sessions for practical performance of the uniportal technique.

Main Results:

• The course structure facilitates a comprehensive learning experience.
• Supervised practice allows for initial attempts at the uniportal approach.
• Integration of theory, observation, and practical skills enhances surgical training.

Conclusions:

• Wet lab courses offer a viable and effective method for thoracic surgeons to learn uniportal VATS.
• Supervised training by the technique's inventor ensures high-quality instruction.
• This educational framework supports the adoption of advanced minimally invasive thoracic surgery techniques.