Laparoscopic training is necessary for physicians and surgeons to perform surgeries using small incisions and computer-guided tools. It requires a different skill set, and is usually completed as part of surgical training, with the option to specialize further through a laparoscopy fellowship program.
Laparoscopic training is available to individuals training to be physicians, as part of a general surgery residency, and to physicians who are part of a laparoscopic fellowship program. Surgery performed by laparoscopic techniques is completed with a small incision and tools guided by the use of computer images. A camera is placed at the end of the laparoscope, allowing the surgeon to complete the operation without exposing the internal area. The use of these tools requires a different skill set than what is learned in general surgery; therefore, special training in the use of the equipment is required. Medical training programs differ by region, but laparoscopic training is usually completed as part of surgical training.
In most countries, medical training to become a doctor is completed in several distinct stages, each offering the chance to complete some level of laparoscopic training. Students attend medical school where they learn general medical knowledge and are exposed to a wide variety of medical specialties, including surgery. While in medical school, students are not yet considered physicians and will not be able to perform laparoscopic surgery, but they will likely attend surgery and surgical residents. This is valuable training for students as it allows them to understand the basics of surgery which is needed to form the basis for further laparoscopic training.
After graduating from medical school, students are considered physicians and must choose a specific specialty to receive further training in a residency program. Surgical residents receive their first hands-on laparoscopic training in this part of their education. Some countries and regions have varying levels of surgical training where students are exposed to laparoscopy. For example, some areas complete medical education directly after high school, combining college and medical school.
During residency or equivalent periods of surgical training, physicians perform all different types of surgery under the supervision of senior assistant surgeons and residents. These individuals instruct residents in the different types of surgery that use laparoscopy, such as pancreas operations and appendix removal.
After the residency is completed, surgeons have the option to complete further laparoscopic training and become a laparoscopy specialist by participating in a laparoscopy fellowship. This training is considered an extension of the residency years and is offered to physicians who have completed a surgical residency. Programs are offered both in general laparoscopy and in specific fields such as gynecology and endourology.
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