Impact of the endoscopist's experience on the negative predictive value of capsule endoscopy. / Influencia de la experiencia acumulada del explorador en el valor predictivo negativo de la cápsula endoscópica.

INTRODUCTION: The impact of the accumulated experience of the capsule endoscopy (CE) reader on the accuracy of this test is discussed. AIM: To determine whether the negative predictive value of CE findings changes along the learning curve. METHODS: We reviewed the first 900 CE read by 3 gastroenterologists experienced in endoscopy over 8 years. These 900 CE were divided into 3 groups (300 CE each): group 1 consisted of the sum of the first 100 CE read by each of the 3 endoscopists; group 2, the sum of the second 100 and groups 3, the sum of the third 100. Patients with normal CE were monitored for at least 28 months to estimate the negative predictive value. RESULTS: A total of 54 (18%) CE in group 1, 58 (19.3%) in group 2 and 47 (15.6%) in group 3 were normal, although only 34 patients in group 1, 38 in group 2 and 36 in group 3 with normal CE completed follow up and were eventually studied. The negative predictive value was 88.2% in group 1, 89.5% in group 2 and 97% in group 3 (P>.05). CONCLUSION: The negative predictive value tended to increase, but remained high and did not change significantly after the first 100 when readers are experienced in conventional endoscopy and have preliminary specific training.

Evolution of laparoscopic surgery in a high volume hepatobiliary unit: 150 consecutive pure laparoscopic hepatectomies. / Evolución de la cirugía laparoscópica en una unidad hepatobiliar de alto volumen: 150 hepatectomías laparoscópicas consecutivas.

INTRODUCTION: Compared to other surgical areas, laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) has not been widely implemented and currently less than 20% of hepatectomies are performed laparoscopically worldwide. The aim of our study was to evaluate the feasibility, and the ratio of implementation of LLR in our department. METHODS: We analyzed a prospectively maintained database of 749 liver resections performed during the last 10-year period in a single centre. RESULTS: A total of 150 (20%) consecutive pure LLR were performed between 2005 and 2015. In 87% of patients the indication was the presence ofprimary or metastatic liver malignancy. We performed 30 major hepatectomies (20%) and (80%) were minor resections, performed in all liver segments. Twelve patients were operated twice and 2 patients underwent a third LLR. The proportion of LLR increased from 12% in 2011 to 62% in the last year. Conversion rate was 9%. Overall morbidity rate was 36% but only one third were classified as severe. The 90-day mortality rate was 1%. Median hospital stay was 4 days and the rate of readmissions was 6%. CONCLUSIONS: The implementation of LLR has been fast with morbidity and mortality comparable to other published series. In the last 2 years more than half of the hepatectomies are performed laparoscopically in our centre.

Mapping epistemic cultures and learning potential of participants in citizen science projects.

The ever-widening scope and range of global change and interconnected systemic risks arising from people-environment relationships (social-ecological risks) appears to be increasing concern among, and involvement of, citizens in an increasingly diversified number of citizen science projects responding to these risks. We examined the relationship between epistemic cultures in citizen science projects and learning potential related to matters of concern. We then developed a typology of purposes and a citizen science epistemic-cultures heuristic and mapped 56 projects in southern Africa using this framework. The purpose typology represents the range of knowledge-production purposes, ranging from laboratory science to social learning, whereas the epistemic-cultures typology is a relational representation of scientist and citizen participation and their approach to knowledge production. Results showed an iterative relationship between matters of fact and matters of concern across the projects; the nexus of citizens' engagement in knowledge-production activities varied. The knowledge-production purposes informed and shaped the epistemic cultures of all the sampled citizen science projects, which in turn influenced the potential for learning within each project. Through a historical review of 3 phases in a long-term river health-monitoring project, we found that it is possible to evolve the learning curve of citizen science projects. This evolution involved the development of scientific water monitoring tools, the parallel development of pedagogic practices supporting monitoring activities, and situated engagement around matters of concern within social activism leading to learning-led change. We conclude that such evolutionary processes serve to increase potential for learning and are necessary if citizen science is to contribute to wider restructuring of the epistemic culture of science under conditions of expanding social-ecological risk.

Results during the learning curve in the laparoscopic common bile duct exploration for choledocolithiasis.

OBJECTIVES: To analyze the results obtained in terms of efficacy and safety during the learning curve of a surgical team in the technique of laparoscopic common bile duct exploration with cholecystectomy (LCBDE+LC) using choledochoscopy for the treatment of patients with cholelithiasis and choledocolithiasis or common bile duct stones (CBDS) (CDL). METHODS: Single-center prospective analysis of patients treated with LCBDE+LC during the first 4 years of implementation of the technique. A descriptive and comparative analysis was carried out between groups according to the transcystic (TCi) or transcolecocal (TCo) approach, and also evolutionary by periods. The effectiveness of the technique was evaluated using the variable success rate and safety through the analysis of the overall complication rate and the bile leak rate as the most frequent adverse effect. RESULTS: A total of 78 patients were analyzed. The most frequent approach was TCo (62%). The overall success rate was 92%. The TCi group had a shorter operating time, a lower overall complications rate and a shorter hospital stay. The TCo approach was related to a higher rate of clinically relevant bile leak (8%). Complex cases increased significantly during the learning curve without effect on the overall results. CONCLUSIONS: LCBDE+LC is an effective and safe technique during the learning curve. Its results are comparable to those published by more experienced groups and do not present significant differences related to the evolution during learning period.

Learning curve of optical trocar access during laparoscopic pelvic surgery: A prospective study.

INTRODUCTION: The optical trocar access (OTA) is a modified closed technique that aims to minimize the risk of vascular or bowel injuries while reducing the likelihood of gas leakage. A learning curve (LC) effect for OTA has been invoked with n = 30 procedures being considered as a threshold to define expertise. We aim to evaluate the impact of the LC within the first thirty cases of OTA performed by a trainee. METHODS: This is a prospective randomized study on 60 patients elected to laparoscopic gynecological surgery. Patients were randomized to have OTA insertion by a junior surgeon or by an expert. LC was evaluated by: 1) insertion time; number of: 2) corrections by the senior; 3) times the tip of the trocar stopped in the preperitoneal layer; 4) mistakes of skin incision; 5) times the tip of the trocar ends under the omentum; 6) complications. To analyze the LC within the first 30 cases, procedures were stratified in 3 groups (cases 1-10; 11-20; 21-30) for both trainee and expert and LC variables were compared. RESULTS: Overall, mean OTA insertion time was 56 s. No major intra- and post-operative complications were recorded. Mean insertion time was statistically significantly longer for the trainee compared to the expert within the first 10 cases (91 vs 33 s respectively, P = .01). For cases 11-20 and 21-30, time advantage of the senior surgeon is less evident (P = .05). The number of times the tip of the trocar stopped in the preperitoneal layer was similar between groups, as well as times the tip of the trocar ends under the omentum. CONCLUSIONS: OTA is a fast and simple way to achieve the pneumoperitoneum and first trocar insertion as a single step. The current series confirms the effectiveness of the technique since the beginning of the LC.

Starting a robotic thoracic surgery program: From wedge resection to sleeve lobectomy in six months. Initial conclusions.

INTRODUCTION: Robot-assisted thoracic surgery (RATS) is a rapidly expanding technique. In our study, we aimed to analyze the results of the process to adopt robotic surgery in our Department of Thoracic Surgery. METHODS: This is an intention-to-treat analysis of a series of consecutive patients operated on using the RATS approach in our hospital from January 2021 to March 2022. Data were registered for patient characteristics, type of surgery, operative times, conversion rate, chest tube duration, length of hospital stay and complications. The IBM SPSS® statistical software was used for the statistical analysis. A cumulative sum analysis of the operating time was performed to define the learning curve. RESULTS: During the study period, 51 patients underwent robotic surgery, including pulmonary and non-pulmonary interventions. In addition, 15 patients (29.4%) underwent non-pulmonary interventions: one pleural (2%), 2 diaphragmatic (3.9%), and 12 mediastinal (23.5%). Among the mediastinal surgeries, one conversion was necessary (8.3%) for a complex vascular malformation, and 11 were completed by RATS, including 7 (58.3%) thymomas, 3 (25%) pleuro-pericardial cysts, and one (8.3%) neurogenic tumor. Mean operative time was 141 min (104-178), mean chest tube duration was 0.9 days (0-2), and mean length of stay was 1.45 days (1-2). Thirty-six patients underwent lung surgery (70.6%). The complete RATS resections (34; 94.4%) included: 3 wedge resections (11.1%), 2 segmentectomies (3.7%), 28 lobectomies (81.5%), and one sleeve lobectomy (3.7%). Mean surgery time was 194.56 min (141-247), chest tube duration was 3.92 days (1-8), and length of stay was 4.6 days (1-8). Complications occurred in 4 patients (11.1%). No 90-day mortalities were registered. CONCLUSIONS: The implementation of RATS was achieved with good clinical results and operative times for all indications. A rapid learning curve was accomplished in short time. Previous VATS experience, patient selection, team training and program continuity are fundamental to successfully develop a RATS program.

Transfer of acquired practical skills from dry lab into live surgery using the avatera robotic system: An experimental study.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the transfer of the practical skills of robot-assisted surgery acquired in the dry-lab into a real live experimental setting for performing upper and lower urinary tract surgeries. MATERIAL AND METHODS: An in vivo experimental study design was utilized. Six urology trainees and fellows; two 2nd year trainees with no previous exposure to laparoscopic surgery (Group 1), two 4th year residents with medium exposure to laparoscopic surgery (Group 2) and two fellows trained to perform laparoscopic surgeries (Group 3) performed ureteral reimplantation into the bladder, pyeloplasty, and radical nephrectomy on three female pigs under general anesthesia. Prior to performing the requested procedures, each participant completed 10-14 h dry-lab robotic training acquiring skills in basic surgical tasks, such as suturing, cutting and needle passage. The recorded variables were the successful completion of the procedures, the console time, and the time to perform different steps and major complications. RESULTS: All procedures were completed successfully by all groups except the pyeloplasty by group 1 which was complicated by bleeding from the renal vein, and the procedure was abandoned. Group 3 achieved shorter console time for all successfully completed procedures and for separate surgical steps compared to all groups, followed by Group 2. The slowest group for all procedures and steps analyzed was Group 3. CONCLUSIONS: Although further clinical evidence is needed, the robotic-assisted urological procedures and the most challenging steps could be performed safely and effectively after proper training in the dry lab under mentor supervision according to our study.

Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach: Results after 53 first cases.

INTRODUCTION: Trans Oral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy through Vestibular Approach (TOETVA) allows access to the thyroid with the best cosmetic results as there are no visible scars. METHODS: Here we present a prospective observational study of 53 patients which underwent TOETVA from July 2017 to June 2021. RESULTS: Fifty-two cases (98.1%) cases were women (median age 44 years old). Thyroid nodule was the main surgical indication accounting 73.6% of cases. We performed 42 lobectomies and 11 total thyroidectomies; 4 left Central Neck Dissection (CND) were also associated. The median surgical time for port placement was 14 min and for lobectomy, total thyroidectomy and left CND were 80, 140 and 30 min, respectively. The median of hospital stay was 2 days. Dysphonia was present in 4 patients; however, laryngoscopy only confirmed laryngeal nerve impairment in 2 cases, one of them classified as permanent (1.6%). In those patients that underwent total thyroidectomy, the rate of transient hypoparathyroidism was 18.2% whereas permanent was 0%. Regarding complications associated to the new approach, transient chin numbness appeared in all patients with a variable degree of intensity. CONCLUSTIONS: Transoral surgery is a recent approach in our Unit. Our results, based on the first 53 patients, show that it is a safe and effective approach when performed in appropriately selected patients offering the best cosmetic result. Besides, new complications associated to the approach has been shown to be transient.

Evaluating the impact of the learning curve on the perioperative outcomes of robot-assisted radical cystectomy with intracorporeal urinary diversion.

INTRODUCTION: Robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) with intracorporeal urinary diversion (ICUD) is a technically difficult procedure. Our aim was to evaluate the potential impact of the learning curve (LC) on perioperative and pathological outcomes of RARC with ICUD. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective study of 62 consecutive patients who underwent RARC with ICUD for bladder cancer between 2015-2020. We compared 3 consecutive groups of 20 (G1), 20 (G2), and 22 (G3) patients to analyze the impact of the LC. G1 cases were performed by a senior surgeon experienced in robotic surgery, while G2-G3 were performed by 2 junior surgeons without experience under the mentorship of the senior surgeon. RESULTS: The 3 groups had similar clinical and pathological characteristics. A total of 15 patients (24%) received a neobladder and 47 (75%) an ileal conduit. The mean operative time decreased 60 min between G1-G3 (p = 0.001). No conversions to open approach or intraoperative complications were reported. There were no differences between groups regarding positive margin rates (p = 0.6) or the number of lymph nodes removed (p = 0.061). The postoperative complication rate was 77% and did not change during the LC (p = 0.49). Uretero-enteric stricture rate decreased from 25% in G1 to 9% in G3 (p = 0.217). CONCLUSIONS: The inclusion of junior surgeons to a RARC with ICUD program after the initial 20 cases does not have an impact on the perioperative and pathological outcomes of the procedure. The operative time and the uretero-enteric stricture rate could be reduced during the LC.

Scapular notching in reverse shoulder arthroplasty. Relationship with surgeon̈s experience and clinical outcomes. / Notching escapular en las prótesis invertidas de hombro. Su relación con la experiencia del cirujano y con los resultados clínicos.

BACKGROUND: Scapular Notching is a problem frequently seen in Reverse shoulder arthroplasties (RSAs), produced by a collision between the humeral component and the scapula. The main objective of this study is to analyze whether this problem decreases with the surgeons experience. As secondary objectives, assessing whether there is a relationship between its appearance and the clinical and functional outcome of patients. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed 101 patients with 105 RSAs; we analyzed complications, focusing on scapular notching. Main follow-up time was 36 month (12-72). The clinical and functional outcomes were evaluated with the Constant scale and the QuickDash questionnaire. RESULTS: Forty-two patients (40%) had some degree of scapular notching. Of these, 25 patients had grade I, 14 had grade II and 3 had grade III notching. The average postoperative Constant score for the entire series was 60.72. A tendency toward a reduced incidence of notching was observed with increasing numbers of operated cases and experience of the surgeon (p=0.04). In the group of patients who had notching, the average postoperative Constant score was 56, and in the group that developed notching, the average score was 63. Patients with notching had significantly lower pain scores (p=0.012). CONCLUSIONS: Scapular notching is a common problem of RSA. In RSA, the experience of the surgeon reduces the appearance of problems and complications. Scapular notching is related to poorer clinical outcomes with respect to pain.

Evaluation of the learning curve and initial outcomes with a short cervicometaphyseal fixation stem: A case series. / Evaluación de la curva de aprendizaje y resultados iniciales con un vástago corto de fijación cervicometafisaria: Una serie de casos.

INTRODUCTION: Total hip arthroplasty in young patients has evolved in recent decades, and the use of short stems in young adult patients has been gaining popularity. The restitution of the biomechanics of the hip is a primary requirement to determine the future success of total hip replacement, and even more so in young adults who present the particularity of having a high functional demand and a long life expectancy. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the learning curve and initial clinical-radiological outcomes of the Alteon Neck Preserving Stem™ (ANPS) (Exactech, Gainesville, FL, USA) with a minimum of 2 years follow up. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We conducted a multicenter prospective study that analyzed 90 consecutive total hip replacements during 2014. We performed a clinical-radiological analysis measuring Harris Hip Score (HHS), subjective Rodes and Maudsley satisfaction evaluation, radiolucencies, components position, limb length discrepancy, heterotopic ossification, medical and surgical complications and learning curve. RESULTS: During the first 30 cases, the intraoperative complication rate was 16%, while in the next 60 cases no intraoperative complications were reported. Thigh pain was reported in 3 cases (3.3%), being 2 moderates, and 1 severe. In 2 cases subsidences of 3 mm were detected in the first scheduled X-ray, both related to intraoperative fractures with no progression after 3 months. Mean HHS improved from 42.9 points (range 37-54 points) preoperatively to 93.2 on average (range, 87-96) at the end of the follow up (p < 0.01). Subjective evaluation was excellent in 75 (83.3%) cases and good in 15 patients (16.6%). CONCLUSIONS: This short stem has good clinical radiological results in a short and medium term follow-up and in the hands of surgeons specializing in arthroplasty the learning curve is estimated to be less than 30 surgeries.

Robotic anatomical lung resections: Analysis of the learning curve.

INTRODUCTION: Robotic surgery has become a safe and effective approach for the treatment of pulmonary surgical pathology. However, the adoption of new surgical techniques requires the evaluation of the learning curve. The objective of this study is to analyze the learning curve of robotic anatomical lung resections. METHODS: Retrospective analysis of all robotic anatomical lung resections performed by the same surgeon between June 2018 and March 2020. The learning curve was evaluated using CUSUM charts to estimate trend changes in surgical time, surgical failure and the occurrence of post-operative cardiorespiratory complications throughout the sequence of cases. RESULTS: The study included a total of 73 cases. The median duration of all complications was 120 min (interquartile range: 90-150 min), the prevalence of surgical failure was 23.29%, while 4/73 patients had any postoperative cardiorespiratory complication. Based on the CUSUM analysis, the learning curve was divided into 3 different phases: phase i (from the first to the 14th intervention), phase ii (between the 15th and 30th intervention) and phase iii (from the 31st intervention). CONCLUSIONS: The learning curve for robotic anatomical lung resections can be divided into 3 phases. The technical competence that guarantees satisfactory perioperative outcomes was achived in phase iii from the 31st intervention.

Evaluating the impact of the learning curve on the perioperative outcomes of robot-assisted radical cystectomy with intracorporeal urinary diversion. / Análisis del impacto de la curva de aprendizaje de la cistectomía radical asistida por robot con derivación urinaria intracorpórea sobre los resultados perioperatorios.

INTRODUCTION: Robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) with intracorporeal urinary diversion (ICUD) is a technically difficult procedure. Our aim was to evaluate the potential impact of the learning curve (LC) on perioperative and pathological outcomes of RARC with ICUD. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective study of 62 consecutive patients who underwent RARC with ICUD for bladder cancer between 2015-2020. We compared 3 consecutive groups of 20 (G1), 20 (G2), and 22 (G3) patients to analyze the impact of the LC. G1 cases were performed by a senior surgeon experienced in robotic surgery, while G2-G3 were performed by 2 junior surgeons without experience under the mentorship of the senior surgeon. RESULTS: The 3 groups had similar clinical and pathological characteristics. A total of 15 patients (24%) received a neobladder and 47 (75%) an ileal conduit. The mean operative time decreased 60minutes between G1-G3 (P=0.001). No conversions to open approach or intraoperative complications were reported. There were no differences between groups regarding positive margin rates (P=0.6) or the number of lymph nodes removed (P=0.061). The postoperative complication rate was 77% and did not change during the LC (P=0.49). Uretero-enteric stricture rate decreased from 25% in G1 to 9% in G3 (P=0.217). CONCLUSIONS: The inclusion of júnior surgeons to a RARC with ICUD program after the initial 20 cases does not have an impact on the perioperative and pathological outcomes of the procedure. The operative time and the uretero-enteric stricture rate could be reduced during the LC.

Surgical resident training program to perform laparoscopic bariatric procedures: Are safety and postoperative outcomes compromised? / Realización de procedimientos bariátricos por residentes de cirugía general. ¿Compromete la efectividad de la intervención y los resultados postoperatorios?

INTRODUCTION: Laparoscopic bariatric procedures such as laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) are technically demanding and require a long learning curve. Little is known about whether surgical resident (SR) training programs to perform these procedures are safe and feasible. This study aims to evaluate the results of our SR training program to perform LRYGB. METHODS: We designed a retrospective study including patients with LRYGB between January 2014 and December 2018, comparing SR results to experienced bariatric surgeons (EBS). In our country, SR have a five-year surgical formative period, and in the fourth year they are trained for 6 months in our bariatric surgery unit, from January to June. In the beginning, they perform different steps of this procedure, to finally complete an LRYGB. We collected demographic data, comorbidities, intraoperative outcomes, and postoperative complications and outcomes after a one-year follow-up. RESULTS: Two hundred and eight patients were eligible for inclusion: 67 in group I (SR), and 141 in group II (EBS). Both groups were comparable. There was no statistically significant difference in operating time (166.45min in group I vs. 156.69min in group II; P=0.156). Conversion to open surgery, hospital stay, postoperative complications, and short-term outcomes had no significant differences between the two groups. There was no mortality registered during this period. CONCLUSION: Implementation of LRYGB stepwise learning as part of an SR training program is safe, and results are comparable to EBS, without loss of efficiency. Therefore, it is feasible to train SR in bariatric surgery under EBS supervision.

The influence of surgeons and technicians on the learning curve of femtosecond-laser cataract surgery.

PURPOSE: To demonstrate the influence of the surgeon's and the operating room (OR) technicians' experience upon the outcome of femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Our study included 250 eyes from 156 patients who had undergone either cataract surgery or clear-crystalline-lens extraction and where capsulorhexis and lens fragmentation had been performed using the CATALYS® Precision System femtosecond platform (Abbott Medical Optics Inc., Santa Ana, CA, USA).The patients were operated either by an experienced surgeon in the use of femtosecond laser or by an inexperienced surgeon in that field and two technicians. The quantitative outcome measures were: Suction loss rate, vacuum time, number of consumables used by the patient and intraoperative complication rate. RESULTS: Both for the experienced and the inexperienced surgeons, suction loss rates as well as vacuum time decreased progressively as time went by and more surgical procedures had been completed by that surgeon. For a given surgeon suction time decreased significantly, going from 137 to 99s, as the assisting technician gradually gained experience. The number of consumables used in each procedure by the experienced surgeon ranged from 1.10 (for the first 50 cases) to 1.02 from those initial cases onwards. Regarding intraoperative complications, they also decreased progressively as the number of procedures completed by the surgeon increased. CONCLUSIONS: The experience of each team member involved in such procedures-be it surgeons or technicians-have an impact, to a greater or lesser extent, upon the surgery's outcome, as quantified by the outcome variables of choice.

The complications of the HoLEP learning curve. A systematic review. / Análisis de las complicaciones en el aprendizaje del HoLEP: revisión sistemática.

BACKGROUND: Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) could have better outcomes with decreased complication rates if compared to traditional techniques (transurethral resection and open prostatectomy) for the surgical relief of bladder outlet obstruction. Despite this, its use has not been implemented in the urology community, probably due to the high complication rates of the HoLEP learning curve (HoLC). OBJECTIVE: To conduct a systematic review of the complication rates in HoLC and compare these with those of traditional techniques. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: a systematic literature search was performed in MedLine and Embase using the search terms «HoLEP¼ and «holmium laser enucleation¼. We identified 680 records and selected 15 studies following PRISMA criteria. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS: 1705 cases in the learning curves of 59 surgeons were analyzed. Most of the studies do not report complications in a standardized way. Intraoperative complication rates are low and usually without long-term impact. Postoperative complication rates are limited and show improvement with practice. The complication rates in the HoLC are similar or lower to those reported by traditional techniques. CONCLUSION: Complication rates in HoLC are not higher than those reported by traditional techniques. HoLEP learning should not be delayed for fear of increasing complications or their severity.

Evaluation of laparoscopic approach in radical cystectomy from implementation to consolidation: Internal validation. / Evaluación del abordaje laparoscópico en la cistectomía radical desde la implantación hasta su consolidación: validación interna.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: The AEU Guidelines of 2017 consider laparoscopic and robot-assisted approaches as investigational procedures. The surgical learning curve is defined as the minimum number of cases that a surgeon has to perform in order to reproduce a technique considered as standard. The aim of this study is to analyze, within our department, the implementation of a laparoscopic radical cystectomy (LRC) program compared with a well consolidated and standardized open radical cystectomy (ORC) program. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective cohort analysis of two cystectomy groups: LRC (n=196) (20062016) vs. ORC (n=96) (2003-2005). Comparison of the evolution over time of the following parameters: operative time, blood transfusion rates, resection margins, postoperative complications, hospital stay and recurrence. Three time periods have been defined for LRC: implementation (2006-09) (LRC-I), development (2010-14) (LRC-D) and consolidation (2015-16) (LRC-C); comparing each of them with the control group (ORC). The chi-square test was used for the comparison of the qualitative variables and the Anova test for the numerical ones. RESULTS: When compared to ORC, LRC presented longer operative times in LRC-I and LRC-D periods. We observed a trend toward shorter operative time than ORC in the consolidation period (LRC-C). LRC also presented lower intraoperative transfusion rates in all periods and lower postoperative rates in CRL-D and CRL-C. Overall complications in LRC-D and LRC-C were lower in LRC, having fewer major complications (Clavien≥3) in the 3 periods. A decrease in mortality and hospital stay after the LRC-I phase was also observed. These results were consolidated during the two last periods of the study. We have not observed significant differences between ORC and LRC when comparing surgical margins and recurrence rates, neither in the total series, nor in the comparison between the different periods. These results endorse the oncologic safety of LRC from the beginning of the implementation process. CONCLUSIONS: When compared to ORC, LRC improves perioperative transfusion rates, complications and hospital stay from its implementation period, maintaining oncological safety. On the contrary, longer operative times during implementation and development were observed. However, in our series, we observed a trend toward shorter operative times than ORC approach in the consolidation period. We have validated the laparoscopic approach for radical cystectomy in our service.

Self-estimation of surgical skills and competencies based on the learning curve theory in medical residents and fellows.

OBJECTIVE: The aim was to explore how in-training junior physicians perceive their surgical performance compared with the one externally rated by their senior surgeon trainers, using a general learning curve model. METHODS: Between April and June 2018, a prospective study was conducted at a community hospital associated with a school of medicine. To assess how in-training physicians estimated their surgical performance, 48 surgical residents and fellows were invited to choose one among six options using a scale ranging from "novice" to "automatic expert." In addition, five senior surgeons who supervised the residents/fellows were asked to give their own opinions on each surveyed physician's expertise level, according to the same categories. Concordance analysis was done to compare residents' and fellows' self-perceived skills and their actual performance as estimated by senior surgeons. RESULTS: Self-assessments tended to overestimate residents' and fellows' position on the learning curve; particularly for "proficient" over "competent," and for "automatic expert" over "expert" categories (p = 0.025). The average degree of agreement among senior physicians was 50.0%. Comparison between residents' and fellows' perceived skills and their performances as estimated by senior surgeons showed a weak concordance (kappa = 0.494, 95% confidence interval 0.359-0.631, p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: Nearly 51% of the residents/fellows included in some surgical specialty training program overestimated his/her actual performance as evaluated by classical learning curve categories. Underestimation of self-assessed performance was also observed in 17% of respondents. A better feedback from expert observers to in-training surgeons could result in a more accurate self-perception of their real surgical skills and competencies.

OBJETIVO: Evaluar cómo los médicos en formación (juniors) perciben su propio desempeño quirúrgico en comparación con la calificación otorgada por sus instructores (seniors) según un modelo de curva de aprendizaje. MÉTODOS: Entre abril y junio de 2018 se realizó un estudio prospectivo en un hospital comunitario. Para evaluar cómo los médicos juniors estimaban su propio desempeño, 48 residentes/becarios de especialidades quirúrgicas eligieron una entre seis opciones excluyentes en una escala entre «novicio¼ y «experto automático¼. Además, cinco cirujanos que supervisaban a los residentes/becarios dieron sus propias opiniones sobre el nivel de desempeño de cada médico encuestado, usando las mismas categorías. Se realizó un análisis de concordancia para comparar las habilidades autopercibidas y el desempeño real según lo estimado por los cirujanos seniors. RESULTADOS: Cuarenta y siete juniors y 50 seniors completaron la encuesta. El 51% sobrestimó y el 17% subestimó su ubicación en la curva de aprendizaje con respecto a los observadores externos (p = 0.025). El grado promedio de acuerdo entre seniors fue del 50%. La comparación entre la autopercepción de los juniors con respecto a sus observadores seniors mostró una concordancia pobre (kappa = 0.494; intervalo de confianza del 95% [IC 95%]: 0.359-0.631; p < 0.0001; sesgo promedio de Bland-Altman: 0.40; IC 95%: 0.11-0.70). CONCLUSIONES: La mitad de los residentes/fellows sobrestimó, y uno de cada seis subestimó, su verdadera ubicación en la curva de aprendizaje en comparación a la opinión de los seniors. Un mejor conocimiento de la existencia de este sesgo de estimación del propio desempeño podría redundar en una mejor confiabilidad del juicio médico.

[Validity studies in laparoscopic simulation. Methodology and design considerations.] / Validación en simulación laparoscópica. Consideraciones metodológicas y de diseño.

OBJECTIVES: To describe a roadmap of the most representative milestones and considerations in the validation of surgical simulators, especially those of laparoscopic surgery. And additionally, help determine when in this process a simulator can be considered as validated. METHODS: A non-systematic review was carried out searching terms like simulation, validation, training, assessment, skills and learning curve, as well as providing the experience accumulated by our center. RESULTS: An ideal classical validation process should consist of the following steps: fidelity, verification/calibration/ reliability, subjective and objective strategies. Baseline tests of fidelity and verification/calibration/ technological reliability are not always detailed in the simulation literature. A simulator can be considered validated if, at least, satisfactorily completed any of the two main objective strategies, that is, constructive and/or criterion validity. CONCLUSIONS: The methodologies to validate simulators as useful and reliable for the improvement of psychomotor/ technical skills are widely analyzed, although there is a variety of approaches depending on the scientific reference consulted, not being implemented equally in all works. This apparent arbitrariness should be considered in advance because it can lead the researcher to misunderstandings, especially when the simulator will be regarded as valid.

OBJETIVOS: Describir una hoja de ruta de los hitos y consideraciones más representativos en la validación de simuladores quirúrgicos, especialmente los de cirugía laparoscópica. Y adicionalmente contribuir a determinar en qué momento de este proceso puede considerarse un simulador como validado.MÉTODOS: Se realizó una revisión no sistemática con los términos simulación, validación, formación, entrenamiento, evaluación, habilidades y curva de aprendizaje, además de aportar la experiencia acumulada por nuestro centro. RESULTADOS: Un proceso ideal clásico de validación debería constar de los siguientes pasos: Fidelidad, Verificación/ Calibración/Fiabilidad, estrategias subjetivas y objetivas. Las pruebas de inicio tanto de Fidelidad como de Verificación/Calibración/Fiabilidad tecnológica no siempre están descritas de manera explícita en los trabajos de validación de simuladores. Un simulador puede considerarse validado si al menos ha completado satisfactoriamente una validación de cualquiera de los dos grandes bloques de tipo objetivo, es decir, constructiva y/o de criterio. CONCLUSIONES: Los métodos que permiten validar simuladores como útiles y fiables para la mejora de habilidades de tipo psicomotor/técnico están ampliamente documentados aunque existe cierta variedad de enfoques en función de la referencia científica que se consulte, no aplicándose por igual en todos los trabajos. Esta aparente arbitrariedad debería ser conocida de antemano porque puede llevar al investigador a ciertos equívocos, especialmente a la hora de afirmar cuándo el simulador se considera plenamente validado.

Analysis of previous training with simulated models on the success rate of ultrasound-guided supraclavicular block. Prospective cohort study. / Análisis del entrenamiento previo con modelos simulados en el porcentaje de éxito del bloqueo supraclavicular guiado por ultrasonido. Estudio de cohorte prospectivo.

INTRODUCTION: The teaching based on simulation and acquisition of skills is changing the paradigm of education and restructuring the clinical residences, with the aim of acquiring better skills, increasing procedural success, reducing complications, as well as providing safe, effective, and efficient and focused care of the patient. Peripheral nerve blocks have advanced as techniques for anatomical repairs, use of neurostimulator, and ultrasound. The posgraduate anaesthesiology program implemented a teaching program that included phases of theoretical teaching, training with simulated models, and application in real scenarios. OBJECTIVE: To analyse the success, the management of the ultrasound equipment and the incidence of complications of ultrasound-guided supraclavicular blocks (BSE) in the clinical scenario, performed by residents of anaesthesiology previously trained with a theoretical and simulated model. METHODS: Prospective cohort study among residents of anaesthesiology (R1, R2, R3, R4), who received previous theoretical-practical training on simulated models. The evaluation was performed by expert anaesthesiologists, with video analysis of the ultrasound screen performed at the time of BSE initiation. RESULTS: The evaluation included 16 residents, who performed 156 BSE. None had previous experience in ultrasound-guided blocks. The success of the block was 96.15%. The team management was excellent (from 86% to 95%), with no significant differences among the residents. (P=.61) The incidence of complications was 0.64%, corresponding to arterial puncture. CONCLUSIONS: In BSE, previous training with a theoretical and simulated model could increase the probability of success and reduce complications. With adequate training, first year residents managed to successfully carry out the procedure.