Abstract: | Background:We have developed a single port access (SPA) surgical technique that allows for procedures to be done through a single umbilical port incision <20 mm in length. For a new approach to be universally beneficial, it needs to be easily learned and applied.Methods:Single port access abdominal procedures are performed through one umbilical incision where skin and soft tissue flaps are raised from the underlying fascia to allow insertion of up to 4 instruments. Fifty surgeons with varying degrees of laparoscopic training participated in SPA training programs at Drexel University to learn and apply the SPA technique through participation in an animate (porcine) laboratory.Results:All surgeons successfully performed the SPA access technique without difficulty and completed the cholecystectomy in <55 minutes (average, 42). Eight surgeons successfully performed placement of a cholangiogram catheter. All recognized the value of a formal training symposium to learn SPA techniques before performing SPA procedures in their practice.Conclusions:The SPA technique has been successfully shown to be an approach that is easily learned and accomplished. We believe this is a necessary and important bridge towards proficiency in performing SPA procedures in clinical patients. |