Colorectal surgery simulation in realistic models: experience of Brazilian residents

Practical training is essential in surgical education, and simulation is an effective strategy for developing technical skills in a safe environment. This study describes the experience of the Advanced Practical Course in Colorectal Surgery, which enrolled 52 colorectal surgery residents from different regions of Brazil. The course provided supervised training in colorectal procedures using realistic models, including synthetic simulators, animal models, and fresh cadavers.

To evaluate the applicability of a theoretical-practical training method for first-year colorectal surgery residents in Brazil, as well as theoretical knowledge acquisition, self-confidence in performing procedures, and participant satisfaction.

This study describes the experience of the Advanced Practical Course in Colorectal Surgery, which enrolled 52 colorectal surgery residents from different regions of Brazil. The course provided supervised training in colorectal procedures using realistic models, including synthetic simulators, animal models, and fresh cadavers.

The course was divided into two phases: (1) theoretical lectures and intraoperative videos delivered through a live online platform; and (2) two days of surgical simulation using cadaveric, porcine, and synthetic models under the supervision of experienced colorectal surgeons. Objective theoretical assessments were performed before and after each phase, along with subjective evaluations at the beginning and end of the course. Statistical analysis was conducted using R Commander® software. A significant improvement in self-confidence was observed for laparoscopic right colectomy (p=0.0043), laparoscopic left colectomy (p=0.00048), and total mesorectal excision (p=0.00023). Technical knowledge increased after both the theoretical (p=0.0113) and practical (p=0.00023) phases. Overall satisfaction was high, with a mean score of 9.3 out of 10.

The theoretical-practical simulation-based method proved to be applicable and effective, leading to improved knowledge acquisition, increased procedural confidence, and high satisfaction among first-year colorectal surgery residents.

This study shows how hands-on training can improve surgical education. We evaluated an advanced practical course for first-year colorectal surgery residents in Brazil, combining online classes with realistic surgical simulation using synthetic models, animals, and fresh cadavers. After the course, residents showed better theoretical knowledge, greater confidence to perform procedures, and high satisfaction. Our experience suggests that structured simulation-based training is effective and accessible way to prepare young surgeons for colorectal surgery.

The Advanced Practical Course in Colorectal Surgery demonstrated that innovative, hands-on education can significantly improve the training of colorectal surgery residents in Brazil. By combining realistic simulation models with a hybrid teaching approach that integrates theory and practice, the course allowed residents to safely develop essential technical skills and build confidence. This experience highlights the value of structured, high-quality surgical training outside the operating room. Expanding and maintaining similar programs is crucial to broaden access to advanced education and to support the development of new centers of excellence in surgical training throughout the country.