title: Total mesorectal excision training in soft cadaver: feasibility and clinical application.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The major problem in the treatment of rectal cancer is local recurrence. After the introduction of total mesorectal excision (TME), the recurrent rate decreased from 100% to around 10%.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the quality of organ and tissue plane preservation in soft cadaver and to assess the feasibility to perform the procedure (mobilization of colon and rectum, total mesorectal excision and stapler anastomosis) in soft cadaver.
  
  
  METHODS
  Colorectal Division, Department of Surgery and Surgical Training Center Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University.
  
  
  METHODS
  Prospective descriptive study.
  
  
  METHODS
  Seven soft cadavers were used for total mesorectal excision (TME) training. These procedures were performed by 21 participants (1 soft cadaver for 3 participants). The procedures were done under the supervision of experienced colorectal surgeons. The successfulness, satisfaction in performing the procedure and the quality of organ preservation were evaluated using standardized questionnaires.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Participants were satisfied about TME training in soft cadaver (mean 8.24-8.71) and rated that soft cadavers were good in terms of internal organs and tissue plane preservation (mean 7.19-8.19) (0 = extremely unsatisfied, 10 = extremely satisfied).
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Training of TME in soft cadaver is feasible. The similarity in tissue quality (texture, consistency, color) of the preserved organs to that of the living and the good feel of performing the procedure make the trainee better understand the techniques and improve their skills.
authors: Department of Surgery and Surgical Training Center Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.
authors: Kasaya
authors: K
authors: Tantiphlachiva
authors: Channarong
authors: C
authors: Suansawan
mesh_terms: D002102:Cadaver; D002983:Clinical Competence; D004502:Education, Medical, Continuing; D004521:Educational Measurement; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D006801:Humans; D009364:Neoplasm Recurrence, Local; D016737:Proctocolectomy, Restorative / Q000193:education*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012004:Rectal Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery; D013785:Thailand; D014021:Tissue Preservation