Telementoring as an adjunct to training and competence-based assessment in laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
BACKGROUND
We set out to assess telementoring as a training adjunct and an objective means of assessing competence in laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC).


METHODS
Consecutive patients underwent LC performed by a higher surgical trainee (HST). The laparoscopic image was relayed to an adjoining theater, where the trainer observed as he operated during a parallel operating list. Interaction occurred between trainer and trainee as appropriate; and interaction, procedure difficulty, and duration were recorded.


RESULTS
LC was accomplished in 33 of 34 patients, with one (2.9%) open conversion and one (2.9%) postoperative bile collection. In 21 cases (69%), there was no interaction; in 11 cases (32.4%), there was verbal interaction; and in two cases (5.9%), the trainer scrubbed. Interaction rates for difficulty grades 1, 2, and 3 were 15% (2/13), 41.2% (7/17), and 50% (2/4), with median operating times of 35, 45, and 92 min, respectively.


CONCLUSIONS
Telementoring in LC is feasible, appears to be safe, and may generate objective assessment of a trainee's performance and progress. Evaluation of this technique in a cohort of trainees at different stages is now required.
Byrne
J P
JP
Department of General Surgery, Chorley and South Ribble NHS Trust, Preston Road, Chorley, Lancashire, PR7 1PP England.
Mughal
M M
MM
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D017081:Cholecystectomy, Laparoscopic / Q000379:methods*; D003162:Competency-Based Education / Q000379:methods*; D017558:Elective Surgical Procedures; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D013502:General Surgery / Q000193:education*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008611:Mentors; D008875:Middle Aged; D012449:Safety; D013663:Teaching / Q000379:methods*; D017216:Telemedicine / Q000379:methods*