Da superfície para a profundidade: Curva de aprendizado em lifting facial profundo estendido - meus primeiros 100 casos / From Surface to Depth: Learning Curve in Extended Deep Facelift ­ my First 100 Cases

Introdução: O envelhecimento facial é um processo gradual, complexo e multifatorial. É o resultado de mudanças na qualidade, volume e posicionamento dos tecidos. Cirurgiões plásticos têm modificado sua abordagem na cirurgia do rejuvenescimento facial optando pelo plano subaponeurótico (SMAS). O objetivo deste estudo é analisar 100 casos de pacientes operados pela técnica de SMAS profundo, avaliando sua aplicabilidade e eficácia. Método: Foram avaliados 100 pacientes, submetidos a cirurgia plástica facial pela técnica de SMAS profundo - "Deep Smas", e acompanhados por 6 meses. Observou-se a satisfação dos pacientes, número de complicações, número de reoperações, riscos e vantagens da técnica. Resultados: Foram operados 100 pacientes, num período de 3 anos. A idade variou de 41 a 79 anos, sendo 95% sexo feminino. As complicações foram 8 casos (8%) de lesões de ramos do nervo facial, sendo: 4 casos lesão do zigomático, 3 casos de lesão do mandibular e 1 caso de lesão do bucal; houve 1 caso (1%) de queloide retroauricular; 1 caso (1%) de hematoma. Em relação às revisões cirúrgicas, houve 8 casos (8%) de complementação cirúrgica por insatisfação das pacientes. Houve 15% de lesões nervosas entre a 1ª e a 40ª cirurgia, 5% entre a 41ª e a 80ª, e nenhuma lesão entre o 81º e o 100º paciente. Conclusão: O lifting facial profundo ou subSMAS mostrou ser efetivo, proporcionando bons resultados estéticos. Apresenta baixa taxa de recidiva e baixa taxa de morbidade, porém, necessita de uma longa curva de aprendizagem.

Introduction: Facial aging is a gradual, complex, and multifactorial process. It is the result of changes in the quality, volume, and positioning of tissues. Plastic surgeons have modified their approach to facial rejuvenation surgery, opting for the subaponeurotic plane (SMAS). The objective of this study is to analyze 100 cases of patients operated on using the deep SMAS technique, evaluating its applicability and effectiveness. Method: 100 patients were evaluated, undergoing facial plastic surgery using the deep SMAS technique - "Deep Smas", and followed up for 6 months. Patient satisfaction, number of complications, number of reoperations, risks, and advantages of the technique were observed. Results: 100 patients were operated on over 3 years. Age ranged from 41 to 79 years, with 95% being female. The complications were 8 cases (8%) of injuries to branches of the facial nerve, of which 4 cases of zygomatic injury, 3 cases of mandibular injury, and 1 case of buccal injury; there was 1 case (1%) of post-auricular keloid; 1 case (1%) of hematoma. Regarding surgical revisions, there were 8 cases (8%) of surgical completion due to patient dissatisfaction. There were 15% of nerve injuries between the 1st and 40th surgery, 5% between the 41st and 80th, and no injuries between the 81st and 100th patient. Conclusion: Deep facial lifting or subSMAS has proven to be effective, providing good aesthetic results. It has a low recurrence rate and low morbidity rate; however, it requires a long learning curve.

Learning curve in ponseti method - evolution in 5 year-intervals / Curva de aprendizado no método ponseti - evolução em intervalos de 5 anos

ABSTRACT Objective: Evaluate whether the experience of the surgeon could reduce Ponseti treatment time, and a number of cast changes, and the evolution of the Pirani Score. Methods: 2 reference centers were evaluated. At Institution 1, 254 patients with idiopathic clubfoot (403 feet) were included, and at Institution 2, 32 patients (51 feet). At institution 1 (mentor), 3 intervals of 5 years each were analyzed. At the Institution 2 (trainee), 1 interval of 5 years was analyzed. Results: Patients treated by the mentor had fewer casts compared with the trainee (p < 0.001). At Institution 1, the three mentor intervals showed differences in the number of casts (p < 0.05). A statistically significant difference was observed only in the first mentor interval (2000 to 2005, average of 3.47 casts) compared with the 2 other intervals (2005 to 2010; average of 2.6 casts and 2011 to 2015; average of 2.79 casts; p < 0.0001). Pirani score decreases the most until the third clinic visit. Conclusion: The mentor's greater expertise was associated with fewer casts and shorter time to obtain correction in isolated clubfoot, especially right after the first 5 years of practice. Progression of the Pirani score in both institutions occurs between the first and the third casts. Level of Evidence III; Therapeutic Study, Retrospective Comparative Study.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar se a experiência no Método Ponseti pode reduzir o tempo de tratamento e o número de gessos. Métodos: Na instituição 1 foram incluídos 254 pacientes com pé torto idiopático (403 pés) e na instituição 2, 32 pacientes (51 pés). Na instituição 1 (mentora) foram analisados 3 intervalos de 5 anos. Na instituição 2 (estagiária), foi analisado 1 intervalo de 5 anos. Resultados: Os pacientes tratados pelo mentor tiveram menos gessos em comparação aos tratados pelo estagiário (p < 0,001). Na Instituição 1, os três intervalos de mentores apresentaram diferenças no número de gessos até a correção dos pés (p < 0,05). Diferença estatisticamente significativa foi observada no primeiro intervalo do mentor (2000 a 2005, média 3,47 gessos) em comparação com os outros 2 intervalos (2005 a 2010; média 2,6 gessos e 2011 a 2015; média 2,79 gessos; p < 0,0001). O escore de Pirani diminui mais até a terceira consulta clínica. Conclusão: A maior expertise do mentor no Método Ponseti esteve associada ao menor número de gessos e ao menor tempo para correção do pé torto, principalmente logo após os primeiros 5 anos. A maior progressão do score de Pirani ocorre entre o primeiro e o terceiro gesso. Nível de Evidência III; Estudo Terapêutico, Estudo Comparativo Retrospectivo.

Curva de aprendizagem de dissecção endoscópica de submucosa por endoscopistas ocidentais treinados no Japão: Experiência na América Latina / Learning curve in esophageal endoscopic submucosal dissection by western endoscospists trained in japan: experience in latin america

ABSTRACT Background: Esophageal endoscopic submucosal dissection (EESD) is a complex and time-consuming procedure at which training are mainly available in Japan. There is a paucity of data concerning the learning curve to master EESD by Western endoscopists. Objective: This study aimed to assess the learning curve effect on patient's clinical outcome for EESD. Methods: This is a retrospective observational study. Enrolling patients that underwent EESD from 2009 to 2021. The analysis was divided into two periods; T1: case 1 to 49 and T2: case 50 to 98. The following features were analyzed for each group: patients and tumors characteristics, en-bloc, complete and curative resection rates, procedure duration and adverse events rate. Results: Ninety-eight EESD procedures were performed. Mean procedure time was 111.8 min and 103.6 min for T1 and T2, respectively (P=0.004). En bloc resection rate was 93.8% and 97.9% for T1 and T2, respectively (P=0.307). Complete resection rate was 79.5% and 85.7% for T1 and T2, respectively (P=0.424). Curative resection rate was 65.3% and 71.4% for T1 and T2, respectively (P=0.258). Four patients had complications; three during T1 period and one during T2 period. Overall mortality rate: 0%. Conclusion: The esophageal endoscopic submucosal dissection could be performed effectively and safely by an adequately trained Western endoscopist.

RESUMO Contexto: A dissecção endoscópica da submucosa do esôfago (DSEE) é um procedimento complexo, cujo treinamento está disponível principalmente no Japão. Há uma escassez de dados sobre a curva de aprendizado para se capacitar na realização da DSEE por endoscopistas ocidentais. Objetivo: Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar o efeito da curva de aprendizado no resultado clínico dos pacientes submetidos a DSEE. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo observacional retrospectivo. Foram incluídos pacientes submetidos a DSEE no período de 2009 a 2021. A análise foi dividida em dois períodos; T1: caso 1 a 49 e T2: caso 50 a 98. Os seguintes parâmetros foram analisados para cada grupo: características clínicas dos pacientes e dos tumores de esôfago, taxas de ressecção em bloco, completa e curativa, duração do procedimento e taxa de eventos adversos. Resultados: Noventa e oito procedimentos de DSEE foram realizados. O tempo médio do procedimento foi de 111,8 min e 103,6 min nos períodos T1 e T2, respectivamente (P=0,004). A taxa de ressecção em bloco foi de 93,8% e 97,9% nos períodos T1 e T2, respectivamente (P=0,307). A taxa de ressecção completa foi de 79,5% e 85,7% nos períodos T1 e T2, respectivamente (P=0,424). A taxa de ressecção curativa foi de 65,3% e 71,4% para T1 e T2, respectivamente (P=0,258). Quatro pacientes tiveram complicações; três durante o período T1 e um durante o período T2. Taxa de mortalidade geral: 0%. Conclusão: A DSEE pode ser realizada de forma eficaz e segura por um endoscopista ocidental adequadamente treinado.

A goat eye, wet lab model for training in Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty

Here we describe a new, non-human, ex-vivo model (goat eye model) for training surgeons in DMEK surgeons. In a wet lab setting, goat eyes were used to obtain a pseudo-DMEK graft of 8 mm from the goat lens capsule that was injected into another goat eye with the same maneuvers described for human DMEK. The DMEK pseudo-graft can be easily prepared, stained, loaded, injected, and unfolded into the goat eye model reproducing the similar maneuvers used for DMEK in a human eye, except for the descemetorhexis, which cannot be performed. The pseudo-DMEK graft behaves similar to human DMEK graft and useful for surgeons to experience and understand steps of DMEK early in learning curve. The concept of a non-human ex-vivo eye model is simple and reproducible and obviates the need for human tissue and the issues of poor visibility in stored corneal tissue.

Clinical experience with adjustable scleral lenses / Experiência clínica com lentes esclerais ajustáveis

ABSTRACT Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the fitting process of a scleral lens that allows several parameter adjustments during trials and after the initial period of use. In addition, we verified which adjustments were needed and used the most, their indications, and how often these resources were used, and checked the results. Methods: Scleral contact lens fittings in a private clinic setting were prospectively analyzed in a sequential, non-randomized, and non-comparative manner. All the patients underwent a complete ophthalmic examination and had an indication for scleral lens use (Zenlens, Alden Optical). Results: Scleral fit was analyzed in 80 eyes of 45 patients. Regarding diagnosis, 72% of the patients had keratoconus; 12%, radial keratotomy; 5%, post-refractive surgery ectasia; 5%, dry eye; and 3%, high myopia. In 66 (82.5%) of the 80 eyes studied, parameters were modified when the lenses were ordered. The reasons that led to the modifications were apical touch or decreased sagittal height, increased sagittal height, cylindrical over-refraction, poor visual acuity, lens flexure, peripheral touch, 360° edge compression, horizontal edge compression, and vertical edge compression. Conclusion: In this study, the use of Zenlens scleral lenses was shown to be a promising corrective treatment for patients requiring the use of scleral lenses. Although the study suggests a learning curve, as many adjustments were allowed, the lens could be customized according to the patients' needs. This increased the success rates of fitting and wearing, and consequently, use of the lens became a great option for the visual rehabilitation of patients.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar o processo de adaptação de uma lente escleral que permite vários ajustes de parâmetros durante os testes e após o período inicial do seu uso; verificar quais os ajustes foram necessários, quais foram os mais utilizados, as suas indicações, a frequência com que estes recursos foram utilizados, e avaliar os resultados das mudanças realizadas. Métodos: A adaptação da lente de contato escleral foi analisada prospectivamente, de forma sequencial, não aleatória e não comparativa. Todos os pacientes foram submetidos a um exame oftalmológico completo e tinham indicação para o uso de lentes esclerais. Foi utilizada a lente Zenlens (Alden Optical). Resultados: Foi analisada a adaptação de lentes de contato esclerais em 80 olhos de 45 pacientes. Quanto ao diagnóstico, 72% tinham ceratocone, 12% tinham sido submetidos a ceratotomia radial, 5% tinham ectasia pós-cirurgia refrativa, 5% tinham olho seco, e 3%, alta miopia. Em 66 dos 80 olhos estudados (82,5%), os parâmetros foram modificados quando as lentes foram encomendadas. As razões foram: toque apical ou diminuição da altura sagital, aumento da altura sagital, sobre-refração cilíndrica, baixa acuidade visual, flexão da lente, toque periférico, compressão da borda em 360° e compressão da borda horizontal e/ou vertical. Conclusão: O uso de lentes esclerais Zenlens demonstrou ser uma forma de correção muito promissora para os pacientes que requerem o uso de lentes esclerais. Embora o estudo sugira uma curva de aprendizagem, é possível personalizar as lentes de acordo com as necessidades de cada pacientes. Este fato melhora a adaptação e aumenta a chance de sucesso do uso.

A single-centre experience of His bundle pacing without electrophysiological mapping system: implant success rate, safety, pacing characteristics and one-year follow up

INTRODUCTION@#Despite the challenges related to His bundle pacing (HBP), recent data suggest an improved success rate with experience. As a non-university, non-electrophysiology specialised centre in Singapore, we report our experiences in HBP using pacing system analyser alone.@*METHODS@#Data of 28 consecutive patients who underwent HBP from August 2018 to February 2019 was retrospectively obtained. The clinical and technical outcomes of these patients were compared between two timeframes of three months each. Patients were followed up for 12 months.@*RESULTS@#Immediate technical success was achieved in 21 (75.0%) patients (mean age 73.3 ± 10.7 years, 47.6% female). The mean left ventricular ejection fraction was 53.9% ± 12.1%. The indications for HBP were atrioventricular block (n = 13, 61.9%), sinus node dysfunction (n = 7, 33.3%) and upgrade from implantable cardioverter-defibrillator to His-cardiac resynchronisation therapy (n = 1, 4.8%). No significant difference was observed in baseline characteristics between Timeframe 1 and Timeframe 2. Improvements pertaining to mean fluoroscopy time were achieved between the two timeframes. There was one HBP-related complication of lead displacement during Timeframe 1. All patients with successful HBP achieved non-selective His bundle (NSHB) capture, whereas only eight patients had selective His bundle (SHB) capture. NSHB and SHB capture thresholds remained stable at the 12-month follow-up.@*CONCLUSION@#Permanent HBP is feasible and safe, even without the use of an electrophysiology recording system. This was successfully achieved in 75% of patients, with no adverse clinical outcomes during the follow-up period.

Learning curve of CT-guided localization with medical glue for single pulmonary nodule before video-assisted thoracic surgery / 中国胸心血管外科临床杂志

@#Objective    To evaluate the learning curve of CT-guided medical glue localization for pulmonary nodule before video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS). Methods    The clinical data of the patients with pulmonary nodules who underwent CT-guided medical glue localization before VATS in our hospital from July 2018 to March 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into 3 groups: a group A (from July 2018 to August 2019), a group B (from September 2019 to June 2020) and a group C (from July 2020 to March 2021). The localization time, morbidity, complete resection rate and other indexes were compared among the three groups. Results    A total of 77 patients were enrolled, including 24 males and 53 females aged 57.4±10.1 years. There were 25 patients in the group A, 21 patients in the group B, and 31 patients in the group C. 77 pulmonary nodules were localized. There was no significant difference among the groups in the basic data (P>0.05). The localization time in the group C was 10.6±2.0 min, which was statistically shorter than that in the group A (15.4±4.4 min) and group B (12.9±4.3 min) (P<0.01). The incidence of complications in the group C was lower than that in the group A and group B (25.8% vs. 52.0% vs. 47.6%, P=0.04). The success rate of localization of the three groups was not statistically different (P=0.12). Conclusion    There is a learning curve in CT-guided medical glue localization for single pulmonary nodule before VATS. After the first 46 cases, the operation time can be shortened, and the incidence of complications can be decreased.

Clinical efficacy and learning curve of robot-assisted thymectomy via subxiphoid approach / 中国胸心血管外科临床杂志

@#Objective     To explore the clinical efficacy and learning curve of robot-assisted thymectomy via subxiphoid approach. Methods    The clinical data of patients with robot-assisted thymectomy surgery via subxiphoid approach performed by the same surgical team in the Department of Thoracic Surgery of Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital from February 2021 to August 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. The cumulative sum (CUSUM) analysis and best fit curve were used to analyze the learning curve of this surgery. The general information and perioperative indicators of patients at different learning stages were compared to explore the impact of different learning stages on clinical efficacy of patients. Results    A total of 67 patients were enrolled, including 31 males and 36 females, aged 57.10 (54.60, 59.60) years. The operation time was 117.00 (87.00, 150.00) min. The best fitting equation of CUSUM learning curve was y=0.021 2x3–3.192 5x2 +120.17x–84.444 (x was the number of surgical cases), which had a high R2 value of 0.977 8, and the fitting curve reached the top at the 25th case. Based on this, the learning curve was divided into a learning period and a proficiency period. The operation time and intraoperative blood loss in the proficiency stage were significantly shorter or less than those in the learning stage (P<0.001), and there was no statistical difference in thoracic drainage time and volume between the two stages (P>0.05). Conclusion    The learning process of robot-assisted thymectomy via subxiphoid approach is safe, and this technique can be skillfully mastered after 25 cases.

Learning curve and feasibility study of percutaneous closure of patent foramen ovale guided solely by transthoracic echocardiography / 中华胸心血管外科杂志

Objective:To study the learning curve of percutaneous patent foramen ovale (PFO) occlusion guided solely by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), as well as the success rate and safety of the learning curve.Methods:To retrospectively analyze these patients with indications for PFO occlusion admitted in our department from April 2021 to April 2022, and obtained 100 samples the author's initial cases guided solely by TTE, including 25 men and 75 women, with a mean age of (48.22±10.44) years old.Analyze preoperative baseline data: gender, age, height, weight, body mass index, the tunnel length and size of the PFO measured by transesophageal echocardiography, the grade of contrast-transcranial doppler test, combined atrial septal aneurysm, etc.Operation time, success rate, and complications were analyzed in all patients.Results:With the accumulation of cases, the operation time gradually shortened, accumulated to about 50 cases, the operation time has significantly shortened ( P<0.05), and the learning curve was leveled off after 50 cases ( P<0.05), there was statistical difference.The comparison of the success rate and complication of cases within the learning curve and those after completing the learning curve was no statistical significance( P>0.05). Conclusion:The learning curve of percutaneousc closure of patent foramen ovale guided solely by TTE is long, requiring about 50 cases to complete the learning curve. The success rate and safety of the learning curve are high. This procedure is worth popularizing.

The learning curve of MAKO-assisted total knee arthroplasty / 中华骨科杂志

Objective:To explore the learning curve of MAKO-assisted total knee arthroplasty.Methods:From May 2021 to September 2022, 136 patients were conducted MAKO-assisted total knee arthroplasty in the PLA General Hospital, including 37 males and 99 females, 65.53±7.01 years old (range 54-80 years). All cases were patients with unilateral knee osteoarthritis. The operations were performed by three surgeons, respectively. Sixty-one cases were performed by surgeon 1, 47 cases were performed by surgeon 2, and 28 cases were performed by surgeon 3. Record the time of each step during the operation, and measure the limb alignment in X-ray. The statistical difference between the two groups was compared by t test by SPSS. The cumulative sum control chart (CUSUM) learning curve was modeled by curve fitting and R2 was used to testify the goodness. Results:The total operation time of the three surgeons was 114.3±25.1 min, 109.8±10.9 min, and 118.6±15.1 min, respectively. The time of each step in the first 10 cases and the last 10 cases of operator 1-3 was counted. The osteotomy time of surgeons 1, 2 and 3 in the final 10 cases was less than that in the initial 10 cases (surgeon 1: 13.5 ± 3.41 min vs. 8.0±1.58 min, t=4.30, P=0.001; surgeon 2: 13.7±3.02 min vs. 8.0± 2.58 min, t=4.77, P=0.001; surgeon 3: 15.3±3.97 min vs. 11.0±2.38 min, t=2.87, P=0.010), and the difference was statistically significant. The CUSUM of osteotomy was calculated and the curve was fitted. The highest point of the curve of the three surgeons was in the 16th, 18th and 12th patients, respectively, and the time of osteotomy continued to decline after passing the peak. No statistical differences were found in surgery time for the remaining steps. Comparing the lower alignment angles of intraoperative planning and postoperative X-ray films, the overall difference was greater than 1 degree. The difference was 1.41°±1.32° for operator 1, 1.34°±1.22° for operator 2, and 1.04°±0.88° for operator 3. The percentages of fully accurate implant size planning were 85.2%(52/61), 76.7%(36/47), and 85.7%(24/28), respectively. Conclusion:For MAKO-assisted total knee arthroplasty, the operator can decrease the operation time by practice, which is mainly reflected in the shortening of the osteotomy time. The learning curve threshold is around in the 15th case. The increase in the number of surgeries did not bring about changes in the accuracy of lower extremity alignment.

Learning curve in laparoscopic left lateral hepatic sectionectomy / 中华肝胆外科杂志

Objective:To study the learning curve in laparoscopic left lateral hepatic sectionectomy.Methods:The clinical data of 62 consecutive patients who underwent left lateral hepatic sectionectomy by a single operator from February 2015 to May 2022 in General Hospital of Northern Theater Command were retrospectively analyzed. There were 22 males and 40 females, with mean ±s.d. of (50.7±11.7) years. The learning curve was depicted and evaluated by using the cumulative summation test. The general information, operation and postoperative indicators of the growth level group and the master level group were compared.Results:The average operation time of the 62 consecutive subjects was (172.9±70.1) minutes. Intraoperative blood loss was 100 (50, 200) ml. Two patients were converted to open hepatectomy. Clavien-Dindo grade I postoperative complications occurred in 20 patients (32.3%), with grade Ⅱ in 1 patient (1.6%) and grade Ⅲb in another patient (1.6%). The learning curve reached its highest point on the 20th patient by using the cumulative summation test. The study subjects were then assigned into the growth level group (patient 1-20) and the master level group (patient 21-62). The master level group had a significantly wider spread of patient age [(52.9±11.0) years vs (46.1±11.9) years], decreased operation time [(146.8±55.6) min vs (227.9±66.7) min], shortened drainage tube removal time [4(3, 5) d vs 6(4, 7) d] and decreased postoperative hospital stay [5(5, 7) d vs 6.5(4, 9) d] (all P<0.05) when compared with the growth level group. Conclusion:Left lateral hepatic sectionectomy was safe and feasible, and a single operator went through a learning curve of 20 patients before he/she could master the operation more proficiently.

Feasibility, reliability and validity of a 3D scanning volume measurement for distal upper limb volume / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo clarify the feasibility of the 3D scanning volume method for distal upper limb volume measurement, and to analyze its scorer reliability and criterion-related validity. MethodsFrom January to March, 2022, a therapist (operator A) who had not been exposed to 3D scanning volume method and water displacement method was trained to use a handheld 3D laser scanner and a spilt cup to measure the volume of a PVC distal upper limb model. The operation time of 30 operations of each method was recorded. The learning curves of the two methods were plotted using cumulative sum (CUSUM) analysis. The curve was cut into the learning stage and the mastery stage by the vertex of peak. The times required to reach the mastery stage and the operation time of the mastery stage for the two methods were recorded. A total of 20 healthy subjects were recruited from Huashan Hospital of Fudan University. Two trained therapists (operator A and operator B) measured the bilateral distal upper limb volume using a handheld 3D laser scanner, and operator A measured the bilateral distal upper limb volume using a spilt cup. ResultsThe fitting learning curve of the 3D scanning volume method (R² = 0.984) reached its peak after eight times of operation; while that of the water displacement method (R² = 0.494) reached its peak after five times of operation. At mastery stage, the operator spent less time using 3D scanning volume method than using water displacement method (P < 0.05). The intraclass correlation coefficient between the two operators were both 0.979 for bilateral distal upper limb volume measure (P < 0.001). The Pearson coefficients was above 0.979 between 3D scanning volume method and water displacement method (P < 0.001). ConclusionA therapist can master the use of the 3D scanning volume method after eight times of operation, and the operation time of 3D scanning volume method is shorter than that of water displacement method at mastery stage. The 3D scanning volume method is well reliable and valid, that can be used as an alternative to the water displacement method for distal upper limb volumetric measurement.

Prediction, analysis and application of learning curve of tooth preparation for all ceramic crowns of maxillary central incisors / 北京大学学报(医学版)

OBJECTIVE@#To predict the learning curve of tooth preparation for all ceramic crowns of maxillary central incisors on phantom head simulators for graduate students participating in standardized dental resident training based on the modified Wright learning curve model, then to analyze and applicate the learning curve.@*METHODS@#Twelve graduate students participating in standardized dental resident training were selected to prepare the resin maxillary central incisors on phantom head simulators for all ceramic crowns 4 times. The results of preparation were evaluated by 3 prosthetic experts with at least 10 years' experience focusing on the reduction, contour, taper, shoulder, finish line, margin placement, adjacent tooth injury, and preparation time for tooth preparation. The learning rate of tooth preparation was calculated by scores of tooth preparation of 4 times. The learning curve of tooth preparation was predicted based on the modified Wright learning curve model. According to the criteria of standardized training skill examinations for dental residents in Beijing, 80 was taken as the qualified standard score. The minimum training times for tooth preparation to satisfy the qualified standard score (80) was calculated, to analyze the characteristics of learning curve and evaluate the effectiveness of tooth preparation.@*RESULTS@#The scores of 4 tooth preparation were 64.03±7.80, 71.40±6.13, 74.33±5.96, and 75.98±4.52, respectively. The learning rate was (106±4)%, which showed the learning curve an upward trend. There were no significant differences between the qualified standard score and the predicted scores of tooth preparation from the 5th preparation to the 13th preparation (P > 0.05). The predicted score of the 14th preparation was higher than the qualified standard score (P < 0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#The trend of the learning curve of tooth preparation for all ceramic crowns of maxillary central incisors on phantom head simulators for graduate students participating in standardized dental resident training is upward, which predicts the minimum training times higher than the qualified standard score is 14 times.

The learning curve of bilateral laparoscopic varicocelectomy: a prospective study / A curva de aprendizado da varicocelectomia laparoscópica bilateral: um estudo prospectivo

ABSTRACT Varicocele occurs in 15% of general male population and in 35% of infertile men. Since 1992, surgical correction with laparoscopic varicocelectomy is the gold standard for treatment of symptomatic patients or patients with abnormal seminal analysis. The learning curve for this frequently performed procedure has not yet been described. In the present study, we investigated the learning curve of a single urologist in training performing his first 21 laparoscopic varicocelectomies using qualitative and quantitative tools to evaluate his performance during the process. Our results show that 14 bilateral laparoscopic varicocelectomies are enough to achieve the plateau of the learning curve.

RESUMO Varicocele ocorre em 15% dos homens e em 35% dos homens inférteis. Desde 1992, a correção cirúrgica com varicocelectomia laparoscópica é o padrão ouro para o tratamento de pacientes sintomáticos ou com análise seminal anormal. A curva de aprendizado para esse procedimento frequentemente realizado ainda não foi descrita. No presente estudo, investigamos a curva de aprendizado de um único urologista em treinamento realizando suas primeiras 21 varicocelectomias laparoscópicas usando ferramentas qualitativas e quantitativas para avaliar seu desempenho durante o processo. Nossos resultados mostram que 14 varicocelectomias laparoscópicas bilaterais são suficientes para atingir o platô da curva de aprendizado.

Innovations in surgical training: exploring the role of artificial intelligence and large language models (LLM) / Inovações no treinamento cirúrgico: explorando o papel da inteligência artificial e dos grandes modelos de linguagem (LLM)

ABSTRACT The landscape of surgical training is rapidly evolving with the advent of artificial intelligence (AI) and its integration into education and simulation. This manuscript aims to explore the potential applications and benefits of AI-assisted surgical training, particularly the use of large language models (LLMs), in enhancing communication, personalizing feedback, and promoting skill development. We discuss the advancements in simulation-based training, AI-driven assessment tools, video-based assessment systems, virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) platforms, and the potential role of LLMs in the transcription, translation, and summarization of feedback. Despite the promising opportunities presented by AI integration, several challenges must be addressed, including accuracy and reliability, ethical and privacy concerns, bias in AI models, integration with existing training systems, and training and adoption of AI-assisted tools. By proactively addressing these challenges and harnessing the potential of AI, the future of surgical training may be reshaped to provide a more comprehensive, safe, and effective learning experience for trainees, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes. .

RESUMO O cenário do treinamento cirúrgico está evoluindo rapidamente com o surgimento da inteligência artificial (IA) e sua integração na educação e simulação. Este artigo explora as aplicações e benefícios potenciais do treinamento cirúrgico assistido por IA, em particular o uso de modelos de linguagem avançados (MLAs), para aprimorar a comunicação, personalizar o feedback e promover o desenvolvimento de habilidades. Discutimos os avanços no treinamento baseado em simulação, ferramentas de avaliação impulsionadas por IA, sistemas de avaliação baseados em vídeo, plataformas de realidade virtual (RV) e realidade aumentada (RA), e o papel potencial dos MLAs na transcrição, tradução e resumo do feedback. Apesar das oportunidades promissoras apresentadas pela integração da IA, vários desafios devem ser abordados, incluindo precisão e confiabilidade, preocupações éticas e de privacidade, viés nos modelos de IA, integração com os sistemas de treinamento existentes, e treinamento e adoção de ferramentas assistidas por IA. Ao abordar proativamente esses desafios e aproveitar o potencial da IA, o futuro do treinamento cirúrgico pode ser remodelado para proporcionar uma experiência de aprendizado mais abrangente, segura e eficaz para os aprendizes, resultando em melhores resultados para os pacientes.

Evaluation of konjac noodle as a microsurgery training model: learning curve analysis / Avaliação do uso de macarrão japonês para treinamento microcirúrgico: análise objetiva da melhora na performance

ABSTRACT Background: classical models of microsurgical anastomosis training are expensive and have ethical implications. Some alternatives join low cost and easiness to store. However, the translation of knowledge acquired by training in these methods into the traditional ones is not clear. This project aims to assess the feasibility of konjac noodles as a reliable microsurgery-training model. Methods: 10 neurosurgery residents performed an end-to-end anastomosis in a 2-3mm placenta artery. The anastomoses were evaluated quantitatively, recording time; and qualitatively, applying a validated score (Anastomosis Lapse Index - ALI) by three experienced neurosurgeons and verifying the presence of gross leakage through the infusion of fluorescein. Subsequently, they performed 10 non-consecutive sessions of anastomosis training in the konjac noodle. Eventually, a final anastomosis in the placenta model was performed and the same parameters were scored. Results: we observed a 17min reduction in the mean time to perform the anastomosis in the placenta model after the training in the konjac (p<0.05). There was a non-significant 20% reduction in gross leakage, but the training sessions were not able to consistently improve the ALI score. Conclusions: we demonstrate a reduction in anastomosis performing time in placental arteries after training sessions in the konjac noodle model, which can be regarded as a feasible low-cost method, particularly useful in centers with surgical microscopes only in the operation room.

ABSTRACT Introdução: modelos tradicionais de treinamento de anastomose microcirúrgica costumam ter custos elevados e implicações éticas de aquisição e manutenção, buscando-se alternativas que reúnam baixo custo e facilidade de armazenamento. Existem diferentes propostas, porém há poucas evidências de que conhecimentos adquiridos com o treinamento nessas plataformas se traduza em melhora na performance, quando estes são comparados a modelos consagrados. Este projeto objetiva avaliar a viabilidade do macarrão de konjac como modelo confiável de treinamento microcirúrgico. Métodos: 10 residentes de neurocirurgia realizaram uma anastomose término-terminal em artéria placentária humana de 2-3mm. As anastomoses foram avaliadas quantitativamente, registrando-se o tempo de confecção e qualitativamente, aplicando-se um escore validado (Anastomosis Lapse Index - ALI) por neurocirurgiões experientes e verificando-se a presença de vazamento grosseiro através da visualização no modo fluorescente injetando-se fluoresceína. Subsequentemente, realizaram 10 sessões de treinamento não consecutivos de anastomose términoterminal no modelo de konjac. Por fim, uma anastomose final foi realizada no modelo placentário e os mesmo parâmetros reavaliados. Resultados: observamos uma redução de 17 min no tempo médio de confecção da anastomose no modelo de placenta após os treinos no modelo do macarrão (p<0.05). Houve uma redução não significativa de 20% no vazamento grosseiro. As sessões de treino no macarrão não foram capazes de melhorar consistentemente o score ALI. Conclusão: o treinamento em modelo de macarrão konjac é capaz de reduzir o tempo para realização das anastomoses no modelo em placenta humana, mostrando-se alternativa viável de baixo custo e manutenção, útil em serviços que disponham de microscópio apenas no ambiente cirúrgico.

Aortic Valve Repair as a Subspecialty: Still an Institutional Practice or Open for All?

ABSTRACT Aortic valve repair combined with root stabilization procedures have been reported to have reliable mid to long-term outcomes, and this is one of the reasons that various surgical units are accepting these techniques as an option in selected cases. Aortic valve replacement is a standard procedure with established results, but to master its techniques there is a major uphill learning curve. A brief communication is presented on the aortic valve repair focusing on the lesser discussed aspects like global variability of the pathology and outcomes, variable referral patterns, and effect of ethnicity.

Clamp vascular de fio de mononylon em microcirurgia experimental / Vascular clamp of mononylon thread in experimental microsurgery

Introdução: A microcirurgia reparadora é ramo hoje indissociável e imprescindível na cirurgia plástica. O treinamento é longo, custo financeiro relativamente alto e exige muito dos proponentes. Para melhorar essa equação a favor da formação de novos microcirurgiões no Brasil, é fundamental facilitar o acesso ao treinamento experimental, utilizando materiais simples. Huaraca descreveu uma técnica utilizando um simples fio mononylon 5-0 para substituir o clamp vascular, que é instrumento indispensável da anastomose microcirúrgica e geralmente de alto custo. O objetivo é comparar a técnica de Huaraca com fio de mononylon e o clamp metálico tradicional durante anastomose microcirúrgica vascular. Métodos: Seis ratos da raça Wistar cujas duas artérias femorais foram aleatoriamente selecionadas para sutura término-terminal após secção completa, sendo um dos lados realizado com clamp vascular habitual e o contralateral com técnica de Huaraca, no mesmo tempo cirúrgico e pelo mesmo cirurgião. Resultados: Em ambas as situações, a taxa de patência foi de 67% após 72 horas, sendo que o tempo médio foi de 26 minutos com a técnica de Huaraca e de 18 minutos com o clamp tradicional (p=0,001). Conclusão: Apesar do tempo de execução mais longo, a técnica de Huaraca é medida simples e de baixo custo que pode substituir o clamp vascular tradicional.

Introduction: Reconstructive microsurgery is now an inseparable and essential branch of plastic surgery. The training is long, has a relatively high financial cost and requires a lot of the proponents. To improve this equation in favor of the formation of new microsurgeons in Brazil, it is essential to facilitate access to experimental training, using simple materials. Huaraca described a technique using a simple 5-0 mononylon thread to replace the vascular clamp, which is an indispensable instrument for microsurgical anastomosis and is generally expensive. The objective is to compare the Huaraca technique with mononylon thread and the traditional metal clamp during vascular microsurgical anastomosis. Methods: Six Wistar rats whose both femoral arteries were randomly selected for end-to-end suture after complete section, with one side performed with usual vascular clamp and the contralateral with Huaraca technique, at the same surgical time and by the same surgeon. Results: In both situations, the patency rate was 67% after 72 hours, with an average time of 26 minutes with the Huaraca technique and 18 minutes with the traditional clamp (p=0.001). Conclusion: Despite the longer execution time, the Huaraca technique is a simple and low-cost measure that can replace the traditional vascular clamp.

Safety and learning curve of Da Vinci robotic single-anastomosis duodenal-ileal bypass with sleeve gastrectomy in the treatment of obesity patients / 中华胃肠外科杂志

Objective: To investigate the safety and learning curve of Da Vinci robotic single-anastomosis duodenal-ileal bypass with sleeve gastrectomy (SADI-S) in the treatment of obesity patients. Methods: A descriptive case series study was performed. Clinical data of obesity patients who were treated with Da Vinci robotic SADI-S in China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University from March 2020 to May 2021 were analyzed retrospectively. Case inclusion criteria: (1) uncomplicated obese patients with body mass index (BMI)≥37.5 kg/m(2); (2) patients with BMI of 28 to <37.5 kg/m(2) complicated with type 2 diabetes or two metabolic syndrome components, or obesity comorbidities; (3) patients undergoing SADI-S by Da Vinci robotic surgery system. Those who received other bariatric procedures other than SADI-S or underwent Da Vince robotic SADI-S as revisional operation were excluded. A total of 77 patients were enrolled in the study, including 31 males and 46 females, with median age of 33 (18-59) years, preoperative body weight of (123.0±26.2) kg, BMI of (42.2±7.1) kg/m(2) and waistline of (127.6±16.3) cm. According to the order of operation date, the patients were numbered as 1-77. The textbook outcome (TO) and Clavien-Dindo grading standard were used to analyze the clinical outcome of each patient and to classify surgical complications, respectively. The standard of textbook outcome was as follows: the operative time less than or equal to the 75th percentile of the patient's operation time (210 min); the postoperative hospital stay less than or equal to the 75th percentile of the patient's postoperative hospital stay (7 d); complication grade lower than Clavien grade II; no readmission; no conversion to laparotomy or death. The patient undergoing robotic SADI-S was considered to meet the TO standard when meeting the above 5 criteria. The TO rate was calculated by cumulative sum analysis (CUSUM) method. The curve was drawn by case number as X-axis and CUSUM (TO rate) as Y-axis so as to understand the learning curve of robotic SADI-S. Results: The operative time of 77 robotic SADI-S was (182.9±37.5) minutes, and the length of postoperative hospital stay was 6 (4-55) days. There was no conversion to laparotomy or death. Seven patients suffered from complications (7/77, 9.1%). Four patients had grade II complications (5.2%), including one with duodeno-ileal anastomotic leakage, one with abdominal bleeding, one with peritoneal effusion and one with delayed gastric emptying; two patients were grade IIIb complications (2.6%) and both of them were diagnosed with gastric leakage; one patient was grade IV complication diagnosed with postoperative respiratory failure (1.3%), and all of them were cured successfully. A total of 51 patients met the textbook outcome standard, and the TO rate was positive and was steadily increasing after the number of surgical cases accumulated to the 46th case. Taking the 46th case as the boundary, all the patients were divided into learning stage group (n=46) and mastery stage group (n=31). There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of gender, age, weight, body mass index, waist circumference, ASA classification, standard liver volume, operative time and morbidity of postoperative complication (all P>0.05). The percent of abdominal drainage tube in learning stage group was higher than that in mastery stage group (54.3% versus 16.1%, P<0.05). The length of postoperative hospital stay in learning stage group was longer than that in mastery stage group [6 (4-22) d versus 6 (5-55) d, P<0.05)]. Conclusion: The Da Vinci robotic SADI-S is safe and feasible with a learning curve of 46 cases.

Learning curve of robot-assisted L 4 and L 5 pedicle screw insertion for lumbar spondylolisthesis / 中华骨科杂志

Objective:To study the learning curve and inflection point of robot-assisted L 4 and L 5 pedicle screw insertion for lumbar spondylolisthesis. Methods:A retrospective study was conducted on the data of 43 patients with L 4 and L 5 pedicle screw insertion for lumbar spondylolisthesis from January 2016 to December 2020 using surgical robot, including 19 males and 24 females, aging 59 (48, 66) years old. According to Meyerding classification, there were 23 grade I slippage, 18 grade II slippage, and 2 grade III slippage. The screw deviation and screw accuracy grade were assessed. The operation time, intraoperative blood loss, the number of intraoperative fluoroscopies, postoperative complications, and postoperative hospital stay were recorded. Cumulative Sum (CUSUM) was used to analyze the learning curve, and the learning curve is divided into early and late learning stages according to morphology. T test and Wilcoxon rank-sum test were used for statistical analysis and comparison of indicators between early and late learning stages. Results:43 patients with lumbar spondylolisthesis successfully completed the operation, with 60 L 4 pedicle screws and 70 L 5 pedicle screws inserted. The accuracy of L 4 pedicle screw placement began to improve since the 23rd placement, and the accuracy of L 5 pedicle screw placement began to improve since the 20th placement. Using the 23rd pedicle screw (the 14th patient) to divide the learning curve as the early stage and the late stage. There was no statistically significant difference in the operation time (225.0±74.0 min vs. 207.0±81.2 min, t=0.65, P=0.521), intraoperative blood loss[200 (75, 500) ml vs. 100 (60, 200) ml, Z=1.30, P=0.195], the number of intraoperative fluoroscopies[10 (6, 10) vs. 10 (6, 10), Z=-0.37, P=0.712] and postoperative complications (8% vs. 0, P=0.302) between the early stage and late stage of learning curve. In the late stage of learning, the postoperative hospital stay was shorter[4.5 (3, 6) d vs. 6.0 (5, 9) d, Z=2.00, P=0.046]and the pedicle screw insertion accuracy was higher[L 4: 1.33 (1.06, 1.79) mm vs. 2.23 (1.12, 4.55) mm, Z=2.43, P=0.015; L 5: 1.47 (0.98, 1.87) mm vs. 3.21 (1.64, 4.87) mm, Z=3.90, P=0.001]. The accuracy of screw placement was similar between the early and late stages[L 4: 95%(21/22) vs. 97%(37/38), P=1.000; L 5: 91%(20/22) vs. 96%(46/48), P=0.585]. Conclusion:Robot-assisted L 4 and L 5 pedicle screw placement in the treatment of lumbar spondylolisthesis had a relatively obvious learning curve. Starting from the placement of the 23rd screws, the accuracy of screw placement gradually increased.