This course provides a comprehensive review of the essentials of laparoscopic suturing, from basic to advanced, in a dry lab setting. Didactics contain a variety of surgical videos highlighting a consistent methodology for needle introduction and setting, tissue re-approximation, suture management, and intra- and extra-corporeal knot-tying techniques, among others. The course will provide ample time for hands-on training in a dry lab environment under direct supervision by expert faculty mentors. The faculty will provide immediate feedback and one-on-one instructions based on your individual needs. The course will employ the proprietary EMIGS LaparoBowl and Augmented Reality simulators to help you practice your suturing skills in a simulated pelvic environment. Practicing the ipsilateral and the suprapubic techniques will be offered. More advanced techniques such as baseball stitch, cinch knot, and Roeder’s knot will be demonstrated. Regardless of your skill level, this course will improve your confidence and competence in your next OR.

Learning Objectives: After attending this session, the participant will be able to: 1) Detail different options for needle introduction, setting, and removal; 2) Demonstrate safe and efficient techniques for tissue approximation and suture management; and 3) Perform intra-corporeal, extra-corporeal knot-tying and continuous suturing in an efficient and reproducible manner.

Course Outline
Welcome, Introduction, and Course Overview

Chair: Thomas G. Lang
Co-Chair: Megan A. Cesta
Faculty: Howard L. Curlin, Diana Enclada-Soto, Jamie Kroft, Grace Y. Liu, Veronica Lerner, Fariba Mohtashami, Malcolm G. Munro, Amira Quevedo, Whitney T. Ross, Mallory A. Stuparich

Dry Lab Hands-on: T.G. Lang

Warm up with EMIGS Tasks L1 (Peg/Sleeve Transfer) & L2 (Precision/Circle Cutting)
Introducing, Setting & Loading the Needle
Intra-corporeal Knot Tying (EMIGS L3)
Common Mistakes
Expert Knot Tying
Extra-Corporeal Knot Tying (EMIGS L4)

Running Suture (EMIGS L5)- Vaginal Cuff Closure, Repair of Hysterotomy, bowel and bladder lacerations
Wrap-up – T.G. Lang

Discussion, Questions and Answers – All Faculty

Adjourn