[Training for pediatric surgeons through the keyhole].

INTRODUCTION AND AIM

Minimally invasive techniques are gaining popularity in pediatric surgery, confident knowledge in endoscopies is one of the main purposes of the training. This survey analyzed the laparoscopic training for pediatric surgeons.

METHOD

We sent questionnaires to all trainees and pediatric surgeons specialized after 2012 by e-mail. The questionnaire focused on their opportunities for laparoscopy during the training and their subjective opinions.

RESULTS

34 questionnaires were sent by email. 17 trainees and 11 specialists responded (82%). The rate of endoscopic surgeries is 15% in the clinical centers without trauma surgery, and 2-10% in other training centers. Routine laparoscopies are performed in all centers, and in 40-60% of the centers, advanced endoscopies are also applied. Half of the surgeons performed laparoscopy in the first 2 years of training. An average of 20 laparoscopies were carried out by trainees in the 3-6th year. 50% of the trainees had the opportunity to use pelvitrainer, however, video-watching (100%) is the most common preparation before endoscopies. The surgeons' subjective opinion about having enough laparoscopic experience by the time of the specialty exam was yes: n = 6 (21%), sufficient: n = 12 (43%) and no: n = 10 (36%). The training could be more effective with more equipment, free courses on pelvitrainers or animal models, and with more patient and dedicated attitude of the instructors.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopy is in everyday practice in major centers, however, trainees do not have enough experience in terms of its confident use. Endoscopic training could be better with the regular use of pelvitrainers and more surgical practice. Revision of the operation list and the rise in the number of laparoscopies are necessary. Orv Hetil. 2018; 159(43): 1747-1753.