A 2-week intensive gastrointestinal endoscopy training program for pediatricians.

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Medical Education
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Limited pediatric endoscopy training opportunities exist in Japan.
• This study addresses the need for accessible pediatric GI endoscopy training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a 2-week intensive training program in an adult GI endoscopy setting for pediatricians.
• To determine if pediatricians can acquire basic technical competence for pediatric GI endoscopic procedures after this training.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case series of 17 pediatricians undergoing 2 weeks of intensive endoscopy training.
• Evaluation of the number of esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and ileocolonoscopy procedures performed.
• Questionnaires assessed pediatrician satisfaction and perceived competence.

Main Results:

• Pediatricians performed a median of 102 EGDs and 14 ileocolonoscopies during the 2-week training.
• 15 of 17 pediatricians completed over 100 GI endoscopies.
• All participants reported satisfaction and acquired competence in performing pediatric EGDs, with most continuing practice.

Conclusions:

• A short-term, intensive training in an adult GI setting effectively enables pediatricians to gain competence in pediatric endoscopic procedures.
• This training model offers a viable solution for enhancing pediatric endoscopy skills in regions with limited training opportunities.