TEACHING LAPAROSCOPIC SURGICAL SKILLS - EVALUATION OF A TRAINING-PROGRAM

To evaluate a course in advanced laparoscopic surgery to ascertain ideal training requirements, 23 experienced laparoscopic surgeons who attended 2-day laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair courses were asked to complete a questionnaire. The courses comprised comprehensive lectures, video demonstrations and practice on artificial simulators; each participant assisted in one hernia repair, then performed one under supervision. There was a 96% response rate to the questionnaire. All respondents rated the course format, technical and practical content as ranging from good to excellent. Nineteen (86%) of the respondents felt that the artificial simulators were adequate for learning suturing and stapling skills. Four (80%) of the five who had previously been taught on live animals, felt that the course would not have been improved by using pigs as a training model. Nineteen (86%) felt that a course such as this, where hands-on experience is gained, is essential for a surgeon attempting his/her first case. Eighteen (82%) would attend a similar course in other advanced laparoscopic procedures, e.g. colorectal surgery.