The Empowerment and Education of Gynecologic Surgeons

Drs. Ron Levine and Paya Pasic

The benefits of minimally invasive surgery include shorter operating time, reduced hospital stay, improved cosmesis, and faster recovery—especially when combined with enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols. With these advancements there is a growing need for familiarity, comfort and technical competency to approach a myriad of minimally invasive gynecologic surgeries. With this vision in mind, Dr. Ronald L. Levine and Dr. Resad Paya Pasic developed the nation’s first gynecologic cadaveric dissection laboratory at the University of Louisville. Their shared passion for advancing resident education and enhancing physician skills with a curriculum that combines exposure to state-of-the-art surgical equipment and the fundamentals of laparoscopy has truly stood the test of time.

AAGL’s Annual Advanced Workshop on Gynecologic Laparoscopic Anatomy and Minimally Invasive Surgery is designed for the surgical gynecologist in-practice or in-training who desires to strengthen and advance their laparoscopic skills. This unique in-depth and high-yield course takes place over two days and exposes participants to first-hand, face-to-face, and hands-on guidance from world-renowned laparoscopic surgeons. Participants are assigned to cadavers in groups of two or three, led and supervised through pelvic sidewall and retroperitoneal dissection, identification of anatomy, laparoscopic suturing, performance of laparoscopic hysterectomy, laparoscopic suturing techniques, including cuff closure, and pelvic floor reconstruction.

The Advanced Workshop on Gynecologic Laparoscopic Anatomy and Minimally Invasive Surgery has now entered its 22^nd year. To date, 19 Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery (MIGS) fellows from University of Louisville and nearly 800 gynecologists have attended the course since its inception. As a MIGS fellow, I have had the privilege to teach in the cadaveric workshop which has only strengthened my passion for teaching and gynecologic surgery. I plan to apply the skills I have cultivated to continuing physician education and improving patient outcomes in MIGS. This is the best testament for the Louisville School of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery and Dr. Pasic’s dedication to continued medical education, its impact on improving gynecologic surgery, and the empowerment and education of gynecologic surgeons and the patients they serve.

Dr. Pasic describes the esteemed history of the AAGL’s longest running cadaver course and personally invites you to join him in Louisville.