Evaluation of applied laparoscopic urology course using validated checklist

Abstract

Background and Objectives: The objectives of this study were to investigate the effectiveness of the applied laparoscopic urology course using a validated checklist and to determine any differences in laparoscopic skills achieved by the participants at the end of the course period based on whether they began their training in a dry or wet laboratory. Methods: To facilitate the mastering of challenging laparoscopic skills by urologists, a unique 3-day mini-training program was established at the Gulhane Military Academy of Medicine, Surgical Research Center, Ankara, Turkey. Only 30 trainees were accepted in each course, and they were divided into 3 subgroups. The primary outcome of the study was the changes in the performance and task accomplishment duration of the trainees at the beginning compared with the end of the course. The secondary outcome was any differences in the basic skills of the trainees based on whether they started their training in the dry or wet laboratory. Results: The overall laparoscopic skills, which were evaluated by use of a standardized laparoscopic suturing task score, significantly improved (18.8 to 26.0, P