Development of a valid, cost-effective laparoscopic training program.
BACKGROUND
Practical programs for training and evaluating surgeons in laparoscopy are needed to keep pace with demand for minimally invasive surgery.


METHODS
At the University of Kentucky five inexpensive simulations have been developed to train and assess surgical residents. Residents are videotaped performing laparoscopic procedures on models. Five surgeons assess the taped performances on 4 global skills.


RESULTS
Creating mechanical models reduces training costs. Trainees agreed procedures were well represented by the simulations. Blinded assessment of performances showed high interrater agreement and correlated with the trainees' level of experience. Nonclinician evaluations on checklists correlated with evaluations by surgeons.


CONCLUSIONS
Inexpensive simulations of laparoscopic appendectomy, cholecystectomy, inguinal herniorrhaphy, bowel enterotomy, and splenectomy enable surgical residents to practice laparoscopic skills safely. Obtaining masked, objective, and independent evaluations of basic skills in laparoscopic surgery can assist in reliable assessment of surgical trainees. The simulations described can anchor an innovative educational program during residency for training and assessment.
Adrales
G L
GL
Department of Surgery, Minimally Invasive Center, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA.
Chu
U B
UB
Hoskins
J D
JD
Witzke
D B
DB
Park
A E
AE
D004501:Education, Medical / Q000191:economics / Q000592:standards*; D004521:Educational Measurement / Q000379:methods*; D013502:General Surgery / Q000193:education*; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000592:standards*; D008953:Models, Anatomic; D013663:Teaching; D014743:Videotape Recording