Improving the skills and safety at workplace: Training on the use of the airseal insufflation system in laparoscopic surgery

ABSTRACT

Aims: According to Good Surgical Practice set by the RCS England, surgeons need to keep themselves up to date and maintain the competence in all areas of their practice. Literature and guidelines recommended the use of AirSeal insufflation in laparoscopic surgery for the safety during the first surge of Covid-19. Our objectives were to measure the level of knowledge and confidence of surgical trainees in using the AirSeal insufflation system in laparoscopic surgery at our institution and to help trainees achieve competence. Method: Multiple small group training sessions were delivered to 14 surgical doctors adhering to safety protocols. The concept of the AirSeal insufflation system, its benefits, limitations, set up and troubleshooting were delivered using lectures, videos and hands-on training. The change in level of knowledge and confidence in practical skills were assessed by analyzing the responses to the questionnaire completed before and after the course. Results: • 60% reported increase in knowledge of the AirSeal system • 50% reported increase in confidence of the practical skills • The mean rating for usefulness and satisfaction of the advanced training sessions was 9 out of 10. Conclusion: The dramatic improvement in self-perceived confidence of practical skills and knowledge of the AirSeal system was achieved among surgical doctors. Adaptation to the situation and introduction of this advanced technology to the trainees in elective and emergency settings helped promote the skills and safety at workplace during this pandemic especially with the support of flexible training sessions.