Model Surgical Training: Skills Acquisition in Fetoscopic Laser Photocoagulation of Monochorionic Diamniotic Twin Placenta Using Realistic Simulators

The overall goal of this surgical training model is to allow novice surgeons to familiarize themselves with the techniques used in selective fetoscopic laser photocoagulation in twin-twin transfusion syndrome, and to refine these techniques prior to surgery in patients. These training models are designed to help fetal surgeons refine their skills in fetoscopic ablation of the communicating vessels which cause twin-twin transfusion syndrome. The main advantage of this process is that the entire procedure can be learned before approaching the patient, which helps to overcome the procedural learning curve when a low case load is a significant limitation.

So individuals new to this method will be challenged by the dual use of ultrasound and fetoscope understanding the placenta orientation and navigating the vascular equator. The visual demonstration of these steps is critical as it emphasizes the importance of pre-surgical planning and allows for a better understanding of the surgical process. Begin with setting up the fetoscopy simulator and equipment.