Experience of Setting Up Laparoscopic Workshops in China: a 4-Year Review

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The use of minimally invasive surgery in children worldwide has been increasing at a tremendous speed over the past few years. However, the best way to introduce and teach laparoscopic skills is still not determined. Here, we describe our experiences in the setting up and running of twice a year laparoscopic workshops in various localities in China. METHODS: Since June 2007, a core group of laparoscopic surgeons from three centers have been organizing laparoscopic workshops on a twice a year basis. These workshops were generously subsidized with the aim of helping to promote minimally invasive surgery in Chinese pediatric surgeons. RESULTS: From June 2007 to June 2011, 8 workshops have been organized in 7 different cities in various parts of China. The workshops have all been run on the same format, with didactic lectures; live operative demonstrations (general pediatric surgery and pediatric urology) and live hands-on animal laboratory experience, over a 3-4 day period. The average number of participants per workshop was 40. A total of over 350 participants already attended so far. The earlier workshops were attended mostly by senior surgeons, while there was a trend of more younger surgeons attending the recent workshops. All the workshops had prior CME approval and subsequent post-workshop feedback showed high satisfaction from all participants. CONCLUSION: The teaching of laparoscopic surgery through dedicated and well-run workshops is meaningful. We anticipate to continue in the foreseeable future.