Resident's Training in Vaginal Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery (vNOTES) [ID 2683656

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: As the vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (vNOTES) is becoming a common acceptable approach to perform benign gynecological surgeries, there is need to incorporate it in resident’s curriculum for surgical training. The aim of this study was to estimate the effect of hands-on lab simulation for vNOTES on residents’ perception and confidence in this surgical approach. METHODS: This is a prospective observational study conducted at a single tertiary medical center. Study population included 12 fourth-year residents that were evaluated by seven faculty attending surgeons. All residents completed didactic online training of adnexectomy, and vaginal assisted laparoscopic hysterectomy (VALH) performed by vNOTES. Three hands-on simulation labs were scheduled on a monthly base during the study period. Each resident performed both procedures on each encounter. Residents were evaluated by experienced surgeons in vNOTES approach. Survey evaluating the knowledge and confidence in the vNOTES approach was completed by the residents before and after all simulations. RESULTS: Forty-nine assessments were completed, of them 23 adnexectomies and 26 VALHs. Competence in VALH and adnexectomy were achieved in 5/12 and 2/12 of the residents, respectively. Feedback was completed by seven residents before and after the simulations. 33% increase in the confidence to perform anterior and posterior colpotomy was reported by the residents. 71% versus 85% reported confidence in transecting the uterosacral ligaments before and after the simulations, respectively. Confidence in transecting the uterine artery was found doubled (14% versus 28%) during vNOTES approach after the simulation. 15% increase in the confidence to perform adnexectomy was noted after the simulation; however, 14% reduction was reported by the residents in choosing vNOTES approach for hysterectomy. CONCLUSION: Hands-on simulation in vNOTES approach increases the knowledge and confidence of residents in the surgical steps of adnexectomy and VALH, keeping them up to date with the innovative surgical techniques.