title: An inexpensive ex-vivo porcine laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication training model.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  We recently implemented the use of an ex-vivo porcine model to teach residents the fundamentals of performing a laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication.
  
  
  METHODS
  Residents were trained using intact porcine esophagus, stomach, and spleen placed in a standard video-trainer. They were later asked to complete a survey containing a course evaluation.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Sixteen residents (R1-R4) completed the survey. They agreed that (1) the exercise was a valuable use of their limited time, (2) repeating the exercise will be of additional benefit, (3) it will improve their ability to perform or assist in an actual case in the OR, and (4) the surgical principles learned using the model will transfer to other laparoscopic cases. Significant subjective improvements were reported in resident comfort level in assisting in or performing a laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The use of an inexpensive ex-vivo porcine training model increases resident comfort level in performing a Nissen fundoplication in the operating room.
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
authors.forename: Aaron R
authors.initials: AR
authors.lastname: Jensen
authors.forename: Richard
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Milner
authors.forename: John
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Gaughan
authors.forename: Harsh
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Grewal
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D018662:Fundoplication / Q000193:education*; D013502:General Surgery / Q000193:education; D006801:Humans; D007396:Internship and Residency; D010535:Laparoscopy; D013552:Swine