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Modular surgical training for endoscopic extraperitoneal radical prostatectomy
Author(s) -
Stolzenburg JensUwe,
Schwaibold Hartwig,
Bhanot Shiv Mohan,
Rabenalt Robert,
Do Minh,
Truss Michael,
Ho Kossen,
Anderson Chris
Publication year - 2005
Publication title -
bju international
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.773
H-Index - 148
eISSN - 1464-410X
pISSN - 1464-4096
DOI - 10.1111/j.1464-410x.2005.05803.x
Subject(s) - modular design , medicine , prostatectomy , surgery , computer science , prostate , cancer , operating system
OBJECTIVE To develop a modular training scheme which enabled the use of individual steps of laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RP) for teaching and training surgeons with varied experience, including residents with no experience in open RP, as in extending laparoscopic surgery to more complex operations like RP, the proper training of urologists is crucial. SUBJECTS AND METHODS The technique of endoscopic extraperitoneal RP (EERP) was divided into 12 individual steps of differing complexity. The levels of difficulty were called ‘modules’ and graded according to their requisite skills from module 1 (lowest level of difficulty) to module 5 (highest level). Based on this modular system we established a training programme whereby the trainee learns the procedure in a mentor‐initiated schedule. During each training operation the trainee only performs the modules (steps) of the operation, which correspond with his or her actual skill level. The mentor performs all the other steps, with the trainee assisting. Four trainees with different surgical experience participated in the study. RESULTS After a phase of assisting and camera holding during EERP, the trainees entered the modular training programme and required 32–43 procedures until they were considered to be competent. An analysis of the first 25–50 procedures done independently by the trainee showed mean operative times of 176–193 min and a transfusion rate of 1.3%. Complications during and after EERP requiring re‐intervention were one each of recto‐urethral fistula, haemorrhage, symptomatic lymphocele and anastomotic leak. The positive margin rate for pT2 disease was 12.2% and for pT3 tumours 37%. CONCLUSION The modular concept for teaching EERP is an attractive concept, which overcomes many of the problems involved in complex laparoscopic procedures. Based on a highly standardized technique, this concept offers a short learning curve; it enables training on different sites in cooperation with a high‐volume centre, and it makes it possible to start with this complex procedure as a beginner or with no experience in open RP.