Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2011; 59 - eP161
DOI: 10.1055/s-0030-1269389

Successful establishment of a training course for endoscopic vessel harvesting at INTUS

C Lutz 1, W Voelker 2
  • 1Herzzentrum Lahr Baden, Herz- Thorax u. Gefäßchirurgie, Lahr, Germany
  • 2Universitätsklinikum Würzburg, Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik I, Zentrum für Innere Medizin, Würzburg, Germany

INTUS is the abbreviation of Interdisciplinary Training and Simulation Center. At the university clinic of Würzburg this unique educational platform was founded for operative and interventional methods in medicine. INTUS uses the latest simulators and training devices within certified educational courses.

Endoscopic vessel harvesting is in the United States of America in cardiac and vascular surgery the gold standard which is well documented in literature. In Europe this method is still not spread.

Using special Simulators the method of endoscopic vessel harvesting was taught. This course was realized in the mean time four times with highest satisfaction of the participants. Experienced tutors were used for individual training of the harvesting method for all four on the market existing systems.

This course was extremely helpful for colleague in cardiac and vascular surgery. It should be integrated in surgical education concepts.