The Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) created the FLS program to standardize a national basic laparoscopic skills curriculum. FLS certification is now a requirement to apply for board examination with the American Board of Surgery (ABS). The exam consists of two parts — a multiple-choice test administered via computer and a manual skills component. Certified FLS proctors evaluate examinee’s manual skills based on efficiency and precision of motion using the FLS Laparoscopic Trainer Box. The Mount Sinai Simulation Center is scheduled to be certified in February. Once accomplished, the Department will be able to certify its own residents as well as outside individuals.
