Practical training is essential in surgical education, and simulation is an effective strategy for developing technical skills in a safe environment. This study describes the experience of the Advanced Practical Course in Colorectal Surgery, which enrolled 52 colorectal surgery residents from different regions of Brazil. The course provided supervised training in colorectal procedures using realistic models, including synthetic simulators, animal models, and fresh cadavers.
To evaluate the applicability of a theoretical-practical training method for first-year colorectal surgery residents in Brazil, as well as theoretical knowledge acquisition, self-confidence in performing procedures, and participant satisfaction.
This study describes the experience of the Advanced Practical Course in Colorectal Surgery, which enrolled 52 colorectal surgery residents from different regions of Brazil. The course provided supervised training in colorectal procedures using realistic models, including synthetic simulators, animal models, and fresh cadavers.
The course was divided into two phases: (1) theoretical lectures and intraoperative videos delivered through a live online platform; and (2) two days of surgical simulation using cadaveric, porcine, and synthetic models under the supervision of experienced colorectal surgeons. Objective theoretical assessments were performed before and after each phase, along with subjective evaluations at the beginning and end of the course. Statistical analysis was conducted using R Commander® software. A significant improvement in self-confidence was observed for laparoscopic right colectomy (p=0.0043), laparoscopic left colectomy (p=0.00048), and total mesorectal excision (p=0.00023). Technical knowledge increased after both the theoretical (p=0.0113) and practical (p=0.00023) phases. Overall satisfaction was high, with a mean score of 9.3 out of 10.
The theoretical-practical simulation-based method proved to be applicable and effective, leading to improved knowledge acquisition, increased procedural confidence, and high satisfaction among first-year colorectal surgery residents.
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