Ureterorenoscopy training on cadavers embalmed by Thiel's method: simulation or a further step towards reality? Initial report

Current status of wet lab and cadaveric simulation in urological training: A systematic review

INTRODUCTION

We undertook a systematic review of the use of wet lab (animal and cadaveric) simulation models in urological training, with an aim to establishing a level of evidence (LoE) for studies and level of recommendation (LoR) for models, as well as evaluating types of validation.

METHODS

Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases were searched for English-language studies using search terms including a combination of "surgery," "surgical training," and "medical education." These results were combined with "wet lab," "animal model," "cadaveric," and "in-vivo." Studies were then assigned a LoE and LoR if appropriate as per the education-modified Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine classification.

RESULTS

A total of 43 articles met the inclusion criteria. There was a mean of 23.1 (±19.2) participants per study with a median of 20. Overall, the studies were largely of low quality, with 90.7% of studies being lower than LoE 2a (n=26 for LoE 2b and n=13 for LoE 3). The majority (72.1%, n=31) of studies were in animal models and 27.9% (n=12) were in cadaveric models.

CONCLUSIONS

Simulation in urological education is becoming more prevalent in the literature, however, there is a focus on animal rather than cadaveric simulation, possibly due to cost and ethical considerations. Studies are also predominately of a low LoE; higher LoEs, especially randomized controlled studies, are needed.

Current Status of Simulation Training in Urology: A Non-Systematic Review

Simulation has emerged as an effective solution to increasing modern constraints in surgical training. It is recognized that a larger proportion of surgical complications occur during the surgeon's initial learning curve. The simulation takes the learning curve out of the operating theatre and facilitates training in a safe and pressure-free environment whilst focusing on patient safety. The cost of simulation is not insignificant and requires commitment in funding, human resources and logistics. It is therefore important for trainers to have evidence when selecting various simulators or devices. Our non-systematic review aims to provide a comprehensive up-to-date picture on urology simulators and the evidence for their validity. It also discusses emerging technologies and future directions. Urologists should embed evidence-based simulation in training programs to shorten learning curves while maintaining patient safety and work should be directed toward a validated and agreed curriculum.

The Impact of Endourological Experience on Flexible Ureteroscopy Outcomes and Performance at Different Levels of Expertise: Retrospective Multifactorial Analysis

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to analyze the influence of residents' participation in flexible ureteroscopy (fURS) on intra- and postoperative outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Intra- and postoperative parameters were compared in a retrospective monocentric setting between 3 groups: "resident group" (47 cases) for surgeries performed by experienced residents alone, "consultant group" (245 cases) for surgeries performed by consultants alone, "resident plus consultant group" (124 cases) for training surgeries between September 2013 and June 2017.

RESULTS

Patients operated by residents alone had a significantly smaller median kidney stone diameter (5.0 vs. 7.0 mm for "consultant group" and 6.0 mm for "resident plus consultant group," p = 0.011), shorter operating time (median 47.0 vs. 63.0 and 77.0 min, p < 0.001) and fluoroscopy time (median 39.0 vs. 69.5 and 89.0 s, p < 0.001), as well as shorter postoperative hospital stay (p = 0.013). The laser application rate was the smallest in the "resident group" (10.64 vs. 31.43 and 29.84%, p = 0.009). Univariate analysis revealed no relevant differences regarding flexible ureteroscope defect rate, postoperative stone-free rate, or ≥2 Clavien-Dindo classification complications between the groups (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

A proper case selection of less complicated cases, especially without laser application, could balance the experience deficit of the residents. fURS can be incorporated as a part of residents' training without an impact on fURS device defect rate or clinical outcomes.