Join the CarLap Study
An innovative, evidence-based program designed to give 1st and 2nd year residents their "driver's license" in basic laparoscopic and suturing skills.
About the Study
Bridging the 30-year gap in standardized surgical training.
The Challenge
More than 30 years after laparoscopic surgery revolutionized healthcare, there is still no universally accepted and standardized European training pathway. This has led to wide variations in skill levels and training follow-up, creating an urgent need for an evidence-based model.
Our Solution
The CarLap study aims to fill this gap by creating a structured, 6-month curriculum that optimizes both learning and, crucially, long-term skill retention. By participating, you not only advance your own skills but also contribute to research that will shape the future of surgical education.
What Makes CarLap Unique?
Multi-Session Program
This isn't a single workshop. It's a structured pathway designed to evaluate your progress and skill retention over a 12-month period.
Objective Eye-Tracking
We combine hybrid simulator data with innovative eye-tracking technology to provide objective measurements of your progress, focus, and skill development.
Novice-Focused
The program is specifically designed for 1st and 2nd year residents in surgery, gynecology, and urology, ensuring a consistent and relevant learning curve for all participants.
Program Structure
From baseline theory to long-term skill retention.
What to Expect: The Pathway
The program is a structured journey. It begins with foundational knowledge and a baseline assessment, followed by intensive hands-on sessions that measure and build upon your retained skills at key intervals.
1. Theoretical Session
Covering laparoscopic towers, cameras, pneumoperitoneum, port placement, energy devices, and suturing techniques.
2. Hands-on & Baseline
Intensive repetition of core skills (e.g., camera navigation, suturing) concluding with your first assessment via simulator and eye-tracking.
3. Follow-up Sessions (1, 3, & 6 Months)
Each session starts by measuring your skill retention, followed by a full day of intensive exercises and a new assessment to track progress.
4. Final Retention (12 Months)
After a 6-month break, a final retention session measures your long-term expertise.
Assessed Practical Skills
The skills assessed are the same as those required for the UEMS-EAES MIS Diploma, directly helping you in your path to board certification. This chart shows the key areas of focus.
Interactive Methodology Explorer
See how we determine the most effective training pathway.
To find the optimal training interval, participants will be divided into four groups. Only one group attends all sessions; the others skip one at different times. Click each group to visualize their unique pathway.
Apply for the 2026 Program
Secure your spot in this limited, high-impact study.
Need Supervisor Approval?
Use our AI assistant to generate a professional email draft to send to your supervisor or department head, outlining the key benefits and justification for this program.
How to Apply
Applications are open for the 2026 cohort. Please apply using the official form below.
Apply Now
Endorsed by: SIKT & EAES
International Expertise: University of Amsterdam, University of Kosice, Linköping University
Program Dates
| Date(s) | Timing | Event |
|---|---|---|
| Sept 10–11, 2026 | 0 Months | Theory (Day 1) + Baseline Hands-on (Day 1) |
| Sept 14, 2026 | 0 Months | Baseline Hands-on (Day 2) |
| Oct 8–9, 2026 | 1 Month | Retention + Hands-on + Assessment |
| Dec 3–4, 2026 | 3 Months | Retention + Hands-on + Assessment |
| Mar 11–12, 2027 | 6 Months | Retention + Hands-on + Assessment |
| Sept 2–3, 2027 | 12 Months | Final Retention Evaluation |