Description and Validation of a Modular Training System for Laparoscopic Nephrectomy

Abstract Background and Purpose: Laparoscopic nephrectomy (LN) has largely replaced open nephrectomy. The aim of this study was to describe a validated modular system for training urologists in LN in the context of the shorter training times available in the current era. Methods: After attendance at dry and wet laboratory courses, three mentees (trainee, new consultant, and an experienced open surgeon) were mentored through a five-module LN training system in our center followed by the mentee's own hospital. A minimum of 25 independent procedures were then performed by mentees in their own hospital. Results: There were 17 to 32 mentored cases needed to become competent in LN, followed by up to 5 observed cases in the mentee's own center. Subsequently, data from the first 105 cases (80 LN and 25 laparoscopic nephroureterectomies [LNU]) performed by the three surgeons after the end of their training without observation by their mentor were retrospectively collected and analyzed. There were three conversions...