Effective instruction by novel simulation technique

Background: Less than 38% of lobectomies are performed videothoracoscopically in Europe. A training tool can help to develop video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) programs. Methods: A heart-and-lung tissue block from swine is employed as ex vivo VATS training tool by 5 surgeons. Surgeons were divided in three expertise groups. Thirty swine lobectomies were completed, and evaluated in swine lobectomy number 1, 10, 20 and 30. Results: The improving percentage between pre-project and post-project evaluation was 0% (beginner group), 54.3% (intermediate group) and 31.7% (expert group). We prove that the model is of relevant help to surgeons already performing VATS lobectomies with not a high expertise level. Conclusions: An ex vivo simulation program can help to establish and consolidate a VATS program in a safety way with low morbidity and conversion rates.