Boston University Medical Campus
Surgery

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease & Other Esophageal Disorders
• Gallbladder Disease
• Abdominal and Groin Hernias
• Weight Loss (Bariatric) Surgery

Information on Laparoscopic Training
for General Surgical Residents

Laparoscopic or minimally invasive surgery has become a mainstay in the practice of general surgery. It is a desirable approach among patients and physicians because of the shorter hospital stay and overall recovery time. The American Board of Surgery’s Residency Program Guidelines requires that residents obtain adequate training in laparoscopy. The experience and training at Boston Medical Center uses several modalities to educate our residents.

• Simulation: The basic principles of laparoscopy are demonstrated using virtual reality and physical model simulators. This technology teaches residents how to overcome the fulcrum effect of laparoscopy, as well as the decreased tactile sensation. The lab is open to residents at all times. A specific curriculum has been developed to direct learning appropriately. Proctoring through individual sessions is available and encouraged.

• Laboratory: Once the basic principles have been mastered, laboratory experience is scheduled to put these skills into practice. These sessions are conducted in small groups with expert surgeons who supervise and teach laparoscopic skills.

• Operative Experience: The rotations in general surgery provide a variety of opportunities to obtain operative experience in laparoscopy. Several rotations have a more concentrated laparoscopic experience. At Boston Medical Center, the Chief’s Service provides ample cases for laparoscopic colorectal procedures, laparoscopic esophageal surgery, and laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The Mozden Service offers a wide array of oncology procedures such as laparoscopic splenectomy and adrenalectomy. In addition, the Bariatric Service performs over 20 laparoscopic gastric bypasses and bands each month. The affiliated institutions such as the Boston VA Medical Center, Quincy Medical Center, and Cape Cod Hospital also offer a significant experience in laparoscopy general surgery.

An illustration from Caspar Stromayr’s Practica Copiosa (1559). The manuscript covered repair of hernias and hydroceles.