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ADVANCED LAPAROSCOPIC & TECHNOLOGY PRECEPTORSHIP BACKGROUND
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In order to improve on the dilemma of technology deficiencies, we must blend new modern knowledge and skill transfer techniques with our traditional educational heritage.  This can be done within the context of a six week structured, concentrated effort that is meant to expose a surgeon to a full range of advanced laparoscopic clinical procedures and establish a comfort level with the cutting edge of technology.  Also, the trainee will be taught how to instruct others in the nuances of this developing surgical artform.  This is the old "train the trainer" educational motto that has proved to be quite effective in establishing advanced procedural capabilities in the past.

The program, which Dr. Rosser originated while at Yale Laparoscopy, features objective evaluation of skill and cognitive knowledge.  Data bases have been prepared from over 600 surgeons around the world with thousands of data points to effectively document technical ability.  Objective based clinical competency evaluation scenarios (OCCES) are designed to enable the use of computer technology to evaluate a surgeon's ability to make an accurate judgment in a clinical setting.

Trainees will undergo computer training to improve their computer literacy and develop production capability in multi-media curriculums.  Instruction will also be given on the proper use of telemedicine and how to implement this capability at their home hospitals.  Over seventeen different advanced laparoscopic surgical procedures with animal lab experience will be held.  Since the start of this program at AMTI, three of the six weeks have been dedicated to focusing on bariatric surgery and all of its definitive aspects.  Exposure to clinical cases is assured by utilizing local sources and by the use of modern telecommunciations.  Procedures from distant sites, under the supervision of "remote teleprofessors", are broadcast to the Institute.

In conclusion, we have recognized the dilemma of retarded proliferation of the modern day miracle or minimally invasive surgery around the world.  For this approach to surgical procedures to reach its full potential with patient quality assurance being maintained, we must utilize technology and modern day knowledge transfer techniques to stimulate a more efficient proliferation rate globally.  This six week mini-fellowship will allow a cost effective vehicle for training the surgical leaders of the new millennium.