Publications by authors named "Julian Varas Cohen"

Distance and remote simulation have emerged as vital tools in modern surgical education, offering solutions to challenges such as limited operating hours, growing clinical demands, and the need for consistent, high-quality training. This review examines the benefits, limitations, and strategies for implementing sustainable distance simulation, structured around 3 foundational pillars: (1) effective hardware and infrastructure, including simulators and realistic scenarios that enable trainees to develop essential skills; (2) validated training programs grounded in educational theory with a clear focus on skill transfer and predictive validity; and (3) timely access to effective feedback. Distance simulation permits adaptable, scalable training environments, but the addition of remote and deferred feedback has further broadened its impact, helping to overcome the challenges posed by faculty availability and clinician time constraints.

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Introduction: Artificial intelligence tools are being progressively integrated into medicine and surgical education. Large language models, such as ChatGPT, could provide relevant feedback aimed at improving surgical skills. The purpose of this study is to assess ChatGPT´s ability to provide feedback based on surgical scenarios.

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Introduction: Laparoscopic surgery is the approach of choice for multiple procedures, being laparoscopic cholecystectomy one of the most frequently performed surgeries. Likewise, video recording of these surgeries has become widespread. Currently, the market offers medical recording devices (MRD) with an approximate cost of 2000 USD, and alternative non-medical recording devices (NMRD) with a cost ranging from 120 to 200 USD.

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Purpose: Nearly 200,000 laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) are performed yearly. Reported learning curves range between 50 and 150, even 500 cases to decrease the operative risk. Simulation programs could accelerate this learning curve safely; however, trainings for LRYGB are scarce.

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Nowadays surgical trainees are faced with a more reduced surgical practice, due to legal limitations and work hourly constraints. Also, currently surgeons are expected to dominate more complex techniques such as laparoscopy. Simulation emerges as a complementary learning tool in laparoscopic surgery, by training in a safe, controlled and standardized environment, without jeopardizing patient' safety.

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