A Training Module for Laparoscopic Urology

OBJECTIVES A fellowship training model in laparoscopic urological surgery has been established for interested urologists to help them proceed from the pelvic trainer/animal laboratory environment to safe clinical practice. The objective of the model is to provide trainees with clinical experience under direct mentor supervision before embarking on independent laparoscopic urological surgery at their own base hospitals. METHODS The fellowship model incorporates 9 fluid phases: Phase 1 to complete basic and advanced training courses. Phase 2 to practice at home or in the office using pelvic trainers. Phase 3 to proceed to an animal laboratory course. Phase 4 to visit centers of international repute to observe high-volume laparoscopic urology. Phase 5 to observe the mentor perform several major renal laparoscopic cases. Phase 6 to perform several hand-assisted renal procedures under direct mentor guidance at the mentor hospital. Phase 7 to perform several laparoscopic or retroperitoneoscopic renal procedures, or both, under direct mentor guidance at the mentor hospital. Phase 8 to mentor assisted trainees to start laparoscopic surgery at their own hospitals. Phase 9 to practice laparoscopic urology independently. RESULTS So far, 9 trainees have participated in the fellowship. Six have reached phase 9 with independent practice, 2 others are in phase 8, and 1 is in phase 7. Skills development has been steady, with progressive acquisition of surgical dexterity and spatial orientation. CONCLUSION This fluid fellowship model provides urologists with clinically applicable teaching experience to learn a relatively new surgical concept safely and effectively, thereby promoting clinical governance. It may be possible for other centers to establish similar fluid "mini" fellowships to help disseminate laparoscopic surgical skills.