Background/Objectives: This study aims to develop and validate a reproducible training model, built using common hospital items, for laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair with an intracorporeal suturing approach, specifically focusing on iliopubic tract redress in pediatric patients. Methods: Pediatric surgery residents and consultants were instructed on model building and engaged in training sessions. They practiced for four weeks with the handcrafted model and completed a post-simulation survey. The time taken to conclude the training task and the modified Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills score were compared between the initial and last sessions at the end of the training period. Additionally, the time required by consultants to perform the laparoscopic procedure in vivo, intraoperative complications, and recurrence rates were analyzed from the time they started the training. Results: A feasible model was created using a colostomy dressing support, Penrose drains, Foley catheters, feeding tubes, and surgical gloves to simulate. The sample involved a total of twelve residents and five consultants with an average age of 33 years old. All participants successfully completed the task during the session. Since the consultants started their training on the model, the operative results for laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair in the theater have improved. Conclusions: Training experience on this model led to improve laparoscopic skills such as cutting and dissection and intracorporeal tying and knotting. This study confirms that training outside clinical practice can significantly benefit laparoscopic proficiency and safety in vivo.
Grasso et al. (2026) studied this question.