Mentoring in Pediatric Thoracoscopy: From Theory to Practice

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Surgical Education

Background:

• Pediatric thoracoscopy is technically demanding, necessitating structured training.
• A standardized approach is crucial for developing surgical expertise.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the outcomes of a novel four-step surgical training program for pediatric thoracoscopy.
• To assess the effectiveness and safety of the training protocol.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study of surgeons undergoing a 4-step training: theory, experimental, reference centers, and personal experience.
• Emphasis on mentor selection and evaluation of adherence, operative times, and complication rates.
• Surgical outcomes for esophageal atresia (EA/TEF) repair and congenital lung malformations (CLM) were analyzed.

Main Results:

• The 2-year training program was completed successfully.
• Thoracoscopic procedures including 24 lobectomies, 9 sequestrectomies, 2 bronchogenic cyst resections, and 20 EA/TEF repairs were performed without conversion.
• Operative times decreased, and only three minor complications occurred.

Conclusions:

• A standardized 4-step training program is highly effective for pediatric thoracoscopy.
• The program's design and crucial mentor selection contribute to safe and efficient advanced surgical practice.
• Experience-based profiles for instructors are recommended for teaching pediatric thoracoscopy.