Our Summary

The research paper discusses the impact of a laparoscopic surgery training course in Nepal that started in 2013. This course was designed to improve the traditional ‘apprenticeship’ model of surgical training, which many experienced surgeons found insufficient. The course utilized both simulated and patient-based training.

To evaluate the course’s impact, a questionnaire was sent to 80 former trainees, about nine months after they completed the course. Out of these, 28 responded. The responses showed that most of the trainees had progressed in their careers since taking the course - there was a significant increase in the number of independent practitioners.

Additionally, most trainees also reported an increase in the number of laparoscopic procedures they had performed. All of the respondents felt that the training in laparoscopic surgery was beneficial in the context of Nepal. They believed the course was helpful in developing their skills, boosting their confidence, and improving patient safety.

However, they also suggested improvements such as extending the course duration and providing more hands-on practical experience. The authors of the research concluded that the course had a positive impact but could be expanded to an advanced level and offered at other centers to maximize its benefits.

FAQs

  1. What was the purpose of the laparoscopic surgery training course in Nepal?
  2. How was the impact of the laparoscopic surgery training course evaluated?
  3. What improvements were suggested by the trainees for the laparoscopic surgery training course?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about laparoscopic surgery is to follow the post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure a smooth recovery. This may include taking prescribed medications, avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments with your surgeon. It is also important to communicate any concerns or unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended laparoscopic surgery include those with conditions such as gallstones, appendicitis, hernias, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), endometriosis, and certain types of cancer (such as colon cancer or ovarian cancer). Laparoscopic surgery is often recommended for patients who are looking for minimally invasive procedures with faster recovery times and less scarring compared to traditional open surgery.

Timeline

  1. Before laparoscopic surgery:
  • Patient meets with a surgeon to discuss the procedure, potential risks, and benefits
  • Patient may undergo pre-operative testing such as blood work, imaging scans, and a physical examination
  • Patient receives instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including fasting guidelines and medication instructions
  1. Day of laparoscopic surgery:
  • Patient arrives at the hospital or surgical center and is prepped for surgery
  • Anesthesia is administered to put the patient to sleep
  • Surgeon makes small incisions in the abdomen and inserts a laparoscope (thin tube with a camera) to view the internal organs
  • Surgical instruments are inserted through additional small incisions to perform the procedure
  • Surgery typically lasts 1-2 hours
  1. After laparoscopic surgery:
  • Patient is taken to a recovery room and monitored for any complications
  • Pain medication is provided to manage discomfort
  • Patient may be advised to walk around to prevent blood clots and aid in recovery
  • Patient is discharged home the same day or the following day, depending on the procedure and individual recovery
  • Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing and address any concerns

Overall, laparoscopic surgery offers many benefits compared to traditional open surgery, including shorter recovery times, less pain, and reduced risk of infection. With proper training and experience, surgeons can perform laparoscopic procedures effectively and safely, leading to improved patient outcomes.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about laparoscopic surgery may include:

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with laparoscopic surgery?
  2. How experienced are you in performing laparoscopic procedures?
  3. How long will the recovery process be after the surgery?
  4. Will I need any special preparation before the surgery?
  5. How long will the surgery take?
  6. What type of anesthesia will be used during the procedure?
  7. How soon can I return to normal activities after the surgery?
  8. Will there be any scarring after the surgery?
  9. Are there any specific post-operative care instructions I need to follow?
  10. What are the success rates of laparoscopic surgery for my specific condition?

These questions can help the patient understand the procedure, potential outcomes, and any necessary precautions they need to take before and after the surgery.

Reference

Authors: Westwood E, Malla B, Ward J, Lal R, Aryal K. Journal: World J Surg. 2020 Oct;44(10):3284-3289. doi: 10.1007/s00268-020-05606-y. PMID: 32583018