Blog by Dr Vanessa Cubas

Dr Cubas, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust

I entered immersive training at Cannock Hospital having logged 120 colonoscopies. I felt I was not seeing progression or acquiring skills at preventing recurrent problems such as sigmoid loops.

From the first day, the trainers and myself identified the difficulties I was experiencing, such as maintaining torque and forming sigmoid loops.

The training sessions were very organised. Objectives discussed prior to every session and a debrief following every procedure. 

A typical day includes 2 sessions of 4 colonoscopies. We are encouraged to get involved in all aspects of care. The team were very welcoming and approachable.

On week 2, I was encouraged to practice underwater colonoscopy. This was a huge turning point! I love this technique. It really helped with improvement of skills as well as helping navigate difficult colons. 

Immersive training has helped me consolidate skills as well as develop algorithms to follow (such as position changes, torque, breath-holding, abdominal pressure) and how these aid in negotiating potentially challenging parts of the colon and improving visualisation.

I truly enjoyed my experience; I met a group of amazing trainers and I will take the skills learnt away with me for the entirety of my endoscopic career. This programme will be an amazing addition to any colorectal trainee in need of endoscopy training.