This page sets out the OSATS requirements for the ATSM in benign abdominal surgery: open and laparoscopic.
You have to be competent in:
Opening and closing a vertical abdominal incision
Items under observation:
- Preparation of the patient
- Cleans and drapes patient appropriately
- Marks skin limits if necessary
- Uses scalpel or cutting diathermy appropriately protecting underlying structures
- Identifies layers of abdomen
- Incises rectus sheath correctly
- Opens peritoneum in a safe manner
- Demonstrates understanding and ability to enter peritoneal cavity in alternative manner as necessary
- Packs abdominal organs effectively to allow access to pelvis
- Closure: removes all packs and checks with theatre scrub nurse
- Uses ‘en masse’ technique
- Chooses appropriate suture material
- Protects underlying structure while suturing
- Pays attention and promotes haemostasis
- Closes skin appropriately with subcutaneous closure as necessary