Abstract
Background In this article, we reviewed the training results of medical students using the Microvascular
Research Center Training Program (MRCP), and proposed an ideal microsurgical training
program for all individuals by analyzing the training results of medical students
who did not have any surgical experience.
Methods As of 2015, a total of 29 medical students completed the MRCP. In the most recent
12 medical students, the number of trials performed for each training stage and the
number of rats needed to complete the training were recorded. Additionally, we measured
the operating time upon finishing stage 5 for the recent six medical students after
it became a current program.
Results The average operating time upon finishing stage 5 for the recent six medical students
was 120 minutes ± 11 minutes (standard deviation [SD]). The average vascular anastomosis
time (for the artery and vein) was 52 minutes ± 2 minutes (SD). For the most recent
12 medical students, there was a negative correlation between the number of trials
performed in the non-rat stages (stages 1–3) and the number of rats used in the rat
stages (stages 4–5).
Conclusion Analysis of the training results of medical students suggests that performing microsurgery
first on silicon tubes and chicken wings saves animals' lives later during the training
program. We believe that any person can learn the technique of microsurgery by performing
7 to 8 hours of training per day over a period of 15 days within this program setting.
Keywords
microsurgery - training program - medical student
