Training in laparoscopic colorectal surgery: a new educational model using specially embalmed human anatomical specimen

Juliette Slieker, HP (Hilco) Theeuwes, Göran Rooijen, Johan Lange, Gert-jan Kleinrensink

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

24 Citations (Scopus)
13 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

With an increasing percentage of colorectal resections performed laparoscopically nowadays, there is more emphasis on training "before the job" on operative skills, including the comprehension of specific laparoscopic surgical anatomy. As integration of technical skills with correct interpretation of the anatomical image must be incorporated in laparoscopic training, a human specimen training model with special emphasis on surgical anatomy was developed. The new embalming method Anubifix((TM)) combines long-term high-quality embalming of human bodies with almost normal flexibility and plasticity, and the body can be kept operational as long as conventionally embalmed human specimens. A colorectal training model was created in a specimen in which anatomical landmarks of colorectal anatomy were permanently colored to explore laparoscopic colorectal anatomy in a skills training setting. Airtight closure of the abdominal wall permits the creation of Eleven surgical residents in their first and second year of training participated. Responses to the questionnaire showed that a majority of residents considered the model to be representative of the real situation and superior to animal models or virtual reality simulators, and helped to improve the knowledge of three-dimensional anatomy and laparoscopic skills. The new training model for laparoscopic colorectal surgery proved to be a high-quality tool, concentrating on laparoscopic colorectal anatomy in a skills training setting. We believe it may be a valuable adjunct to residency training programs based on the principle of "training before the job.".
Original languageUndefined/Unknown
Pages (from-to)2189-2194
Number of pages6
JournalSurgical Endoscopy-Ultrasound and Interventional Techniques
Volume26
Issue number8
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2012

Research programs

  • EMC MM-03-47-02-A
  • EMC MM-03-47-11
  • EMC ONWAR-01-94-01

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