Title : Port to practice: Simulation-driven laparoscopic skills for aspiring surgeons
Abstract:
Introduction: Laparoscopic surgery is an essential component of modern surgical practice. However, current formal laparoscopic skills training is often limited to trainees at the ST3 level and above. This project aimed to address this gap by introducing a structured, registrar-led laparoscopic skills course for medical students and junior doctors with an interest in surgery, in alignment with Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) guidelines.
Methods: A five-day hands-on laparoscopic training course was conducted using box trainers and the VirtaMed LaparoS™ virtual reality simulator. The curriculum was designed according to RCS-recommended competencies and was conducted once a week over course of 5 weeks, included key skills such as port insertion, camera navigation, instrument handling, and basic procedural steps in laparoscopic appendicectomy and cholecystectomy. A total of 15 participants, comprising final-year medical students and foundation year doctors, were enrolled. Feedback was collected via anonymized pre- and post-course questionnaires assessing confidence, knowledge, and satisfaction.
Results: All 15 participants completed the course. Pre-course assessments revealed limited prior exposure to laparoscopic techniques. Post-course feedback indicated significant improvement in confidence and perceived competence in essential laparoscopic skills. Participants rated the course highly, with 100% expressing that such training should be included earlier in surgical education. Qualitative feedback highlighted the value of early exposure and the structured approach to technical skill development.
Discussion: This pilot course successfully demonstrated the feasibility and impact of early laparoscopic training for junior trainees and medical students. By aligning with RCS guidelines and utilizing a combination of simulation modalities, the course filled a crucial gap in early surgical education. The overwhelmingly positive feedback supports wider implementation of similar initiatives, promoting preparedness and engagement in surgical careers from an earlier stage.
Learning points: Early exposure to laparoscopic skills significantly enhances confidence and perceived competence among junior trainees and medical students.
Structured, simulation-based training—aligned with Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) guidelines—is both feasible and well-received at the undergraduate and foundation levels.
