Gimnasio de simulación quirúrgica: una herramienta educacional factible de entrenamiento continuo. Experiencia de un centro universitario

Abstract

Introduction: Acquiring competences in laparoscopic surgery requires completing long learning curves that can be effectively shortened through simulated training. However, the training instances of this type are usually brief, sporadic and non cost-effective. As in other disciplines, having a continuous training format as a "gymnasium" would improve the acquisition of skills. Objectives: To describe the implementation of a surgical gymnasium where laparoscopy professionals can learn through validated training programs. Material and methods: Descriptive study. Infrastructure and a physical space were implemented to conduct training tutored by expert instructors in medical education and laparoscopy. Four simulation courses were offered to students for the development of basic and advanced laparoscopic skills. All students had the possibility of attending the gymnasium under their own time availability. Results: In seven years, 435 people have been trained in laparoscopy, all of them in basic laparoscopy, 240 of them in advanced laparoscopy, 62 in the esophagogastric and bariatric laparoscopy module and 11 in hepatobiliary and pancreatic laparoscopy. The evaluation made both by external assistants and residents is positive. Conclusions: The establishment of a simulation gym for the development and maintenance of surgical skills is a feasible and attractive option for residents and surgeons.