Stellenbosch laboratory to give medics a cutting edge

A new clinical training laboratory launched at Stellenbosch University is set to revolutionise the training of healthcare professionals throughout Africa. The R120-million Sunskill Laboratory, based at the university's Tygerberg campus, will provide trainees with exposure to cutting-edge procedural techniques through simulation of a real-world operating environment.

The project is a collaboration between the university and global medical technology corporation Medtronic, and is equipped with the most advanced medical technology. This includes keyhole surgery endoscopes, high-definition surgical microscopes and image-guided navigation equipment. The project will also offer support training in multiple medical disciplines, including critical care physicians, general surgeons, plastic surgeons, urologists, ENT surgeons, neurosurgeons and orthopaedic surgeons. Some of the equipment includes the O-arm 2, a multidimensional surgical imaging platform designed for use in spine, orthopaedic and trauma-related surgeries - the first of its kind on the continent.

Stellenbosch faculty of medicine and health sciences vice-dean of research, Nico Gey van Pittius, said specialists in training now have a safe, observed environment where they are able to perfect their skills before operating. He said surgical proficiency requires a rigorous understanding of the human anatomy and surgical techniques to successfully alleviate disease. Specialist surgical training has always required a fine balance between doctors gaining surgical experience while not putting patients' health at risk in order to do so.

Later this month, 40 experts from around Africa will learn new techniques and hone their existing skills at the laboratory. The facility is geared to train up to 1 200 physicians within the first year of operation. Professor Ian Vlok, head of the neurosurgery division at the faculty of medicine and health sciences, said the simulation needs to be as close to a real-life situation. And when dealing with a commodity that is life, it is the most precious commodity, expense should be spared in training.

Cape Times, 21 July 2016