New NOTES Clinical Training and Program Development

Natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) is an intense area of research, and is arguably the most significant endoscopic innovation of this decade. Training for new NOTES is a relatively long, encompassing advanced endoscopy training, mastery of endoscopic dexterity within the narrow submucosal or “third space” with an in-depth understanding of the tissue planes. Proficiency with new closure and hemostatic devices is also essential. Few institutions worldwide can provide all the cognitive and technical elements essential to train new NOTES trainees. Trainees may need to spend time across several institutions to ensure safe and effective practice of new NOTES.