Training in minimal access surgery.
Minimal access surgery is a new technique involving surgical treatment with the aid of endoscopy. Training in these procedures has, in the UK, been largely self-taught and haphazard. Variation on a surgical skill already achieved is acceptable, but learning a totally new skill by trial and error on a large scale is both unethical and potentially dangerous for the patients involved. This article represents the personal views of a trainee and his trainer in these new techniques.
Cutner
A
A
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Farnborough Hospital, Orpington, Kent.
Erian
J
J
D004724:Endoscopy; D013502:General Surgery / Q000193:education*; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy; D013514:Surgical Procedures, Operative / Q000379:methods*