A survey of laparoscopic workshops
Abstract
Objective
To assess the usefulness of workshops in basic laparoscopic skills in promoting the use of laparoscopy in gynaecological surgery.
Design
Prospective observational survey.
Setting
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales and Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mercy Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
Results
Between 1993 and 1996 12 laparoscopic workshops have been conducted, with eight participants in each course. Of the participants, 82.5% were male, and 72.3% were over the age of 45 years. Out of 62 respondents to a questionnaire, 60 (96.8%) were performing more laparoscopic procedures after the course, with 38/62 (61.3%) performing more complex procedures.
Conclusions
Laparoscopic surgery does have a place in gynaecological practice, and laparoscopic workshops are useful for the introduction of laparoscopic techniques to the gynaecologist.
