Framework for Training in Minimally Invasive Pancreatic Surgery: An International Delphi Consensus Study

Area of Science:

• Surgical Education
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Pancreatic Surgery

Background:

• Structured training is crucial for safe implementation of minimally invasive pancreatic surgery (MIPS).
• A lack of global consensus on essential training program components hinders widespread adoption.
• This study aimed to establish consensus on key elements for MIPS training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To define fundamental components for a structured minimally invasive pancreatic surgery (MIPS) training program.
• To achieve international expert consensus on MIPS training framework, center, and surgeon eligibility.
• To provide guidelines for improving MIPS training and safe global dissemination.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Delphi consensus methodology with international MIPS experts.
• Conducted two rounds of expert ratings on proposed training items across three domains.
• Defined consensus based on expert agreement (≥80%) and Cronbach's α (≥0.70).

Main Results:

• Achieved consensus on 38 fundamental items for MIPS training.
• Established criteria for training framework (16 items), eligible centers/surgeons (19 items), and proctors (3 items).
• Defined center eligibility including minimum annual volumes: 10 distal pancreatectomies and 50 pancreatoduodenectomies.

Conclusions:

• Global expert consensus was reached on essential elements for MIPS training programs.
• These consensus items provide a guideline to enhance MIPS training, proctoring, and safe worldwide implementation.
• The findings support the standardization of MIPS training for improved patient outcomes.