Innovation and challenges: minimally invasive surgery training in Latin America
L Rollan1, C Gigena1, I Diaz Saubidet1
1Fundación Hospitalaria Maternal-Pediatric Hospital, Buenos Aires (Argentina).
Summary
Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) training has grown in Latin America, but surgeon-dependent, self-funded courses limit skill acquisition. Virtual courses are a recommended solution for laparoscopic skills development.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Education
- Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS)
Background:
- Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) training is crucial for modern surgical practice.
- Acquiring laparoscopic skills requires dedicated training programs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the current state of MIS training in Latin America.
- To identify barriers to laparoscopic skill acquisition among surgeons.
Main Methods:
- An anonymous online survey was distributed in November 2022.
- Responses from 131 pediatric surgeons across 16 Latin American countries were analyzed.
Main Results:
- MIS training during residency increased significantly with experience (45.9% for >20 years vs. 95.2% for <10 years).
- Most surgeons completed short, self-funded courses, facing financial and accessibility hurdles.
- Virtual courses were favored by 76.3% for acquiring laparoscopic skills.
Conclusions:
- MIS training has expanded but remains largely surgeon-dependent due to course selection and funding.
- Improvements are needed in structured training programs to enhance laparoscopic skill acquisition.
- Virtual training presents a viable and recommended alternative for MIS education.
