Urology Research & Practice
ENDOUROLOGY - Original Article

The role of laparoscopic experience on the learning curve of HoLEP surgery: A questionnaire-based study

1.

Department of Urology, Acıbadem University Ankara Hospital, Ankara, Turkey

2.

Department of Urology, Gülhane Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey

3.

Department of Urology and Andrology, General Hospital Hall i.T., Hall in Tirol, Austria

4.

Department of Urology, Ankara Oncology Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey

5.

Department of Urology, Kahramanmaraş Göksun State Hospital, Kahramanmaraş, Turkey

6.

Department of Urology, Gazi University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey

Urol Res Pract 2020; 46: 129-133
DOI: 10.5152/tud.2019.19102
Read: 2230 Downloads: 714 Published: 25 October 2019

Objective: Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) is an established method for treating benign prostatic obstruction. Nonetheless, its steep learning curve limits its wide distribution. The purpose of the present study was to demonstrate the impact of laparoscopic experience on HoLEP learning curve by evaluating the association between learning curves of surgeons performing both laparoscopy and HoLEP surgery.

Material and methods: A questionnaire was prepared to identify surgeon’s experience on laparoscopy and HoLEP, as well as their learning curves. This questionnaire was then distributed via e-mail to 110 urologists who are actively involved in endourology/laparoscopy.

Results: Of the 110 urologists, 80 (72.7%) responded and completed the questionnaire. Of the 80 surgeons, 47 (58.8%) reported that they had completed the HoLEP learning curve with <20 cases. Moreover, 33 (41.2%) reported that they were able to complete the learning curve by performing >20 cases. Completion of the HoLEP learning curve in <20 cases was reached at 1.3%, 13.8%, and 43.8% by beginner, moderate skilled, and experienced laparoscopists, respectively (p<0.001).

Conclusion: Laparoscopic experience appears to be beneficial for surgeons while learning HoLEP. Highly experienced laparoscopic surgeons have a shorter HoLEP learning curve.

Cite this article as: Gazel E, Kaya E, Yalçın S, Tokas T, Yılmaz S, Aybal HÇ, et al. The role of laparoscopic experience on the learning curve of HoLEP surgery: A questionnaire-based study. Turk J Urol 2020; 46(2): 129-33.

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