Juntendo University Radiofrequency Ablation Training Program

Abstract

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) plays an important role in the treatment of liver tumors. Juntendo University is now the highest-volume center for RFA in Japan, which obliges us to teach technical aspects of RFA skills to doctors in other institutions and standardize the RFA procedure. In order to provide an opportunity to understand the basic concept and learn essential technical tips for successful ablation, we held a training program at Juntendo University on October 31st and November 1st, 2014. The quota for the program was filled instantly. Eighteen doctors from various regions of Japan participated in it. The program had comprehensive lectures, live demonstration and case study. We performed RFA on three patients. Through the two-day intensive course, the participants learned the current status of RFA. A questionnaire survey after the program revealed overwhelmingly positive feedback from the participants. We plan to hold this program several times a year. We would also like to hold a longer-term training program, such as for 2 weeks. Additionally, we would like to have an international training program in which we would accept foreign doctors in the near future.