The learning curve for uniportal video‐assisted thoracoscopic anatomical segmentectomy

Abstract Objectives The aim of this study is to evaluate the time course and caseload required to achieve proficiency by plotting the learning curve of uniportal thoracoscopic segmentectomy. Methods We retrospectively analyzed the first 238 and 159 cases of uniportal thoracoscopic segmentectomy performed by two surgeons (A and B). The learning curves were assessed using cumulative sum analysis. Perioperative outcomes were evaluated as the learning curve developed. Two subtypes of this surgical approach, simple and complex segmentectomy, were separately analyzed. Results Based on the learning curve, the inflection points occurred at 64 and 90 cases for surgeon A, 71 and 100 cases for surgeon B. Significantly longer operative time ( p = .013), length of stay ( p = .002), and drainage duration ( p = .039) were observed between phase I and phase II compared to phase III for surgeon A. Operative times ( p = .001) were significantly reduced for surgeon B. Furthermore, 26‐28 and 52‐56 cases were necessary to master the simple and complex segmentectomy, respectively. Conclusions A total 64–71 cases were required to master uniportal thoracoscopic segmentectomy and 90–100 cases were necessary to achieve proficiency.