Is the Thiel-embalmed cadaver model a good option for colorectal laparoscopic surgery training programs?A survey on trainees and professors

Abstract

Background: Colorectal surgery is one of the most demanding surgical subspecialties, where trainees need to have a deep knowledge and understanding of the anatomy plus acquire specific technical skills. The use of human cadavers as a training modality is a very good option as they are anatomically identical to the patients. The Thiel-embalming method has demonstrated to allow laparoscopic surgical training. Objective: The aim of this study was to evalutate the idoneity of Thiel embalmed cadavers for training the surgical skills necessary for laparoscopic colorectal surgery.Design: Prospective observational studySettings: University Medical InstitutionSubjects: Trainees and faculties attending to the training course of laparoscopic colorectal surgery on Thiel-embalmed cadaversInterventions: A specific questionnaire was designed to evaluate the training experience.Main outcome measures: 11 questions about the Thiel cadavers, skills, and performance.Results: 41 participants (24 trainees and 17 teachers) completed the questionnaire. 94.1% of teachers and 88% of trainees considered the Thiel cadaver to be a better model for laparoscopic surgery practice than animal models. 82.4% of the teachers and 72% of the trainees believed that training with a Thiel-embalmed cadaver should be a compulsory part of the training before performing colorrectal surgery in vivo. However, 88% of the trainees and 70.6% of the teachers considered that this model lacked authenticity due to the absence of bleeding.Limitations: Data obtained from only one course.Conclusions: Laparoscopic surgical training using Thiel-embalmed cadaver models can be a realistic and feasible option to develop technical skills in surgical residents and junior consultants.