Structured Training for Laparoscopic Appendectomy for Residents (STAR Trial)-A Randomized Pilot Study.

Objective: Laparoscopic appendectomy is a common operation that is frequently performed by junior surgical residents. We investigated the effect of a structured training program on the proficiency of junior residents in acquiring skills necessary in this operation.

Design And Participants: This is a randomized pilot trial.

MEchanical DIlatation of the Cervix-- in a Scarred uterus (MEDICS): the study protocol of a randomised controlled trial comparing a single cervical catheter balloon and prostaglandin PGE2 for cervical ripening and labour induction following caesarean delivery.

Introduction: Labour induction in women with a previous caesarean delivery currently uses vaginal prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), which carries the risks of uterine hyperstimulation and scar rupture. We aim to compare the efficacy of mechanical labour induction using a transcervically applied Foley catheter balloon (FCB) with PGE2 in affected women attempting trial of labour after caesarean (TOLAC).

Methods And Analysis: This single-centre non-inferiority prospective, randomised, open, blinded-endpoint study conducted at an academic maternity unit in Singapore will recruit a total of 100 women with one previous uncomplicated caesarean section and no contraindications to vaginal delivery.