Planning, development, and execution of an international training program in laparoscopic surgery

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Minimally Invasive Surgery

Background:

• Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) training faced global standardization challenges due to varied national surgical education systems.
• Lack of uniform credentialing processes hindered the certification of surgical staff worldwide.
• The late 1980s saw rapid growth in MIS, necessitating structured training and credentialing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and implement a comprehensive education, training, and credentialing program for multispecialty surgical staff.
• To establish a standardized framework for minimally invasive and laparoscopic surgery credentialing.
• To develop a model for international credentialing standards in surgical education.

Main Methods:

• A four-stage, multidisciplinary program was developed for technicians to instructor surgeons.
• An 8-hour didactic/video session on basic laparoscopy was followed by hands-on training and credentialing.
• Participants were credentialed at basic, advanced, or instructor levels in clinical laparoscopy.

Main Results:

• The program successfully trained and credentialed surgical staff across surgery, urology, and gynecology.
• Identified individuals within the institution capable of becoming future instructors and certifiers.
• Established a framework for international collaboration in continuing medical education and training.

Conclusions:

• A structured, multidisciplinary approach can effectively provide education and credentialing in minimally invasive surgery.
• The developed program serves as a potential model for future international credentialing standards.
• Institutional support and international partnerships are crucial for successful surgical training programs.