A multidimensional learning curve analysis of totally laparoscopic ileostomy reversal using a single surgeon' s experience

PURPOSE: Recently, totally laparoscopic ileostomy reversal (TLAP) has received increasing attention and exhibited promising short-term outcomes. The aim of this study was to detail the learning process of the TLAP technique. METHODS: Based on our initial experience with TLAP from 2018, a total of 65 TLAP cases were enrolled. Demographics and perioperative parameters were assessed using cumulative sum (CUSUM), moving average, and risk-adjusted CUSUM (RA-CUSUM) analyses. RESULTS: The overall mean operative time (OT) was 94 min and the median postoperative hospitalization period was 4 days, and there was an estimated 10.77% incidence rate of perioperative complications. Three unique phases of the learning curve were derived from CUSUM analysis, and the mean OT of phase I (1–24 cases) was 108.5 min, that of phase II (25–39 cases) was 92 min, and that of phase III (40–65 cases) was 80 min, respectively. There was no significant difference in perioperative complications between these 3 phases. Similarly, moving average analysis indicated that the operation time was reduced significantly after the 20th case and reached a steady state after the 36th case. Furthermore, complication-based CUSUM and RA-CUSUM analyses indicated an acceptable range of complication rates during the whole learning period. CONCLUSION: Our data demonstrated 3 distinct phases of the learning curve of TLAP. For an experienced surgeon, surgical competence in TLAP can be grasped at around 25 cases with satisfactory short-term outcomes.