The National Training Programme for Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery in England: a new training paradigm

Aim The National Training Programme in laparoscopic colorectal surgery was set up in 2008 to introduce laparoscopic colorectal surgery nationwide in a safe and structured way. Method Over 150 consultant surgeons were enrolled; they received regular and supervised hands on training, and the operative outcome and the structured sign-off process were monitored continuously. Results Over 1000 training cases have been recorded with clinical outcomes comparable to established experts; 1/3 elective colorectal resections in England are performed laparoscopically. Conclusion This successful and novel training model may be a training paradigm for other surgical and interventional specialities.