Today, on January 25, 2024, in Poltava, at 35 Kagamlyka Street, the Simulation Training and Assessment Center of Poltava State Medical University ceremoniously unveiled a simulation laboratory for minimally invasive surgical practice. This initiative was established through the efforts of PSMU Rector, Professor Viacheslav Zhdan, in collaboration with the team from the Communal Enterprise "2nd Municipal Clinical Hospital of Poltava City Council" under the leadership of its Director, Professor Maksym Dudchenko, DMSc.  The event was attended by Member of Ukrainian Parliament Kostiantyn Kasai, local government officials, surgeons and specialists from various fields.

Speaking about the uniqueness of the laboratory for education and practice, PSMU Rector Professor Viacheslav Zhdan stated, "The training of professionals consists of both practical and theoretical components. While the theoretical part mainly takes place in healthcare institutions in the city and region, practical training always requires an individual approach, the ability to objectify the process, and the opportunity to learn and try everything oneself. Today, this is also an international practice, creating simulation centers where a student, coming from a medical institution, can enter and observe what he or she has just witnessed in the clinic in a more refined situation, study the arrangement of organs in more detail, and become familiar with the functions of medical devices. We provide the opportunity for not only our students but also high school students and professionals such as police officers to work in such a laboratory. This includes everyone who works closely with people and needs to learn the skill of providing first aid promptly, as people's survival depends on it!"

There are a total of 12 stations in the laboratory for mastering the necessary skills, each uniquely designed, as explained by Professor Maksym Dudchenko. "This is a unique surgical complex fully adapted for various levels of surgical interventions, including gynecologists, oncologists, and other specialists. It allows the practice of any situations that may arise in both open and minimally invasive surgery, as well as laparoscopic procedures. We offer an extended training course because, based on our observations of frontline soldiers, we see that more can be done to assist them during transportation to the hospital. Therefore, we have developed a training course specifically to address this need. We are practicing this on the most modern equipment in the newly opened laboratory!"

The Simulation Laboratory for Minimally Invasive Surgical Practice incorporates advanced technologies and methodologies developed by PSMU researchers. Particularly noteworthy is a unique simulator for practicing knot tying, as surgeons must be able to do this under various conditions: from superficial to instrumental in different critical situations—stitching simulation with skin imitation, deep tissue stitching, simulation of stitching on the heart, and more. "If you have chosen the path of surgery, you have chosen the path of continuous learning, and it is endless!" emphasized one of the founders of the new laboratory.

The impressions of the event can be summarized briefly: such a facility has never existed in Poltava before! A laboratory for learning and saving lives is extremely necessary! Member of Ukrainian Parliament Kostyantyn Kasai stated, "I believe the level is very high! There are many 'smart' simulators, digital technology that represents the future! Huge respect and thanks to PSMU and surgeon-scientists. Continued successful work in the future!"

Deputy Head of the Poltava Regional Military Administration Anton Chubenko expressed the intention to collaborate: "Based on what I've seen, I think that together with students from the GrytsaIenko Poltava Military Lyceum, we will undergo a course in primary medical care here. In today's conditions, this will be very appropriate!"

Therefore, here's to new scientific achievements and successful implementation for all those who will work in this unique new laboratory to save patients' lives! Good luck!