Laparoscopic right hemicolectomy and transvaginal extraction is a safe and effective procedure that can be added to the armamentarium of surgeons performing laparoscopic colon surgery. This technique may provide both an attractive way to reduce abdominal wall morbidity and a bridge to pure natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery for colon surgery.

Objective To validate standardized instructions for the creation, implementation, and performance assessment of a low-fidelity model for Pfannenstiel incision. Study Design The Pfannenstiel model used at the University of Florida-Jacksonville was broken down into composite steps and constructed by obstetrics-gynecology faculty from across the country. The model was then utilized at participants' home institutions and evaluated with respect to realism of the model, ability to replicate the simulation, appropriateness of the skills checklists, and perceived utility of a publication of similarly catalogued simulation modules for use in obstetrics-gynecology training programs. Results The model was correctly constructed by 94.7% (18 of 19) participants and 72.2% (13 of 18) completed a post construction/post simulation survey indicating a high degree of perceived educational utility, feasibility of construction, and desire for additional catalogued modules. Conclusions A low-fidelity simulation model was developed, successfully reproduced using inexpensive materials, and implemented across multiple training programs. This model can serve as a template for developing, standardizing and cataloging other low-fidelity simulations for use in resident education. As discussions among medical educators continue regarding further restrictions on duty hours, it is highly likely that more programs will be looking for guidance in establishing quick, inexpensive, and reliable means of developing and assessing surgical skills in their learners. Furthermore, the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) has well-defined goals of programs developing better and more reproducible tools for all of their assessments. For programs with limited resources, preparing and disseminating reproducible, validated tools could be invaluable in complying with future ACGME mandates.

Endometrial polyps are localized intrauterine overgrowths of endometrial glands and stroma covered by a surface epithelium. They occur singularly or in multiples, may be sessile or pedunculated, and range from a few millimeters to several centimeters in size. They are common, present in 7.8%-41% of women. Their detection has increased with the advent of high-resolution transvaginal sonography, saline-infusion ultrasonography, and hysteroscopy. Polyps are encountered in both premenopausal and postmenopausal women. Many women are asymptomatic, while others present with abnormal bleeding patterns. Most polyps are benign, but hyperplastic and malignant polyps also may occur. Appropriate management of endometrial polyps includes observation, medication, and surgery. Treatment of these lesions should be tailored to each patient based on their symptoms, menopausal status, risk of malignancy, and fertility desires.