A Decade of Progress and Excellence: The Legacy of CASSTI

By The Medical City (TMC), Ortigas | October 21, 2024

Ten years ago, the Center for Advanced Skills, Simulation, and Training Innovation (CASSTI) was established at The Medical City, marking a significant milestone in surgical education and training. Founded by Dr. Deogracias Alberto G. Reyes, a renowned surgeon with extensive experience in minimally invasive surgery, CASSTI has become a premier facility for honing the skills of healthcare professionals.

(From left to right: Dr. Alfredo R.A. Bengzon, Dr. Deogracias Alberto G. Reyes, Professor Sir Alfred Cuschieri, Dr. Eugenio Jose F. Ramos, Dr. Augusto P. Sarmiento and Dr. Antonio M. Salud)

Pasig, Philippines – Ten years ago, the Center for Advanced Skills, Simulation, and Training Innovation (CASSTI) was established at The Medical City, marking a significant milestone in surgical education and training. Founded by Dr. Deogracias Alberto G. Reyes, a renowned surgeon with extensive experience in minimally invasive surgery, CASSTI has become a premier facility for honing the skills of healthcare professionals.

Drawing inspiration from his training under Professor Sir Alfred Cuschieri in Dundee, Scotland, Dr. Deo recognized the need for a more structured and standardized approach to surgical education. CASSTI was designed to provide a controlled environment where trainees could practice and perfect their techniques before interacting with patients.

Dr. Deogracias Alberto G. Reyes demonstrating cannulation of the cystic duct using laparoscopy and Szabo training box with inanimate model

From its inception, CASSTI has employed a wide range of simulation models, including inanimate models made of foam, rubber, and latex, as well as animal models. In addition, trainees have had the opportunity to work with cadavers donated for medical research and education.

The establishment of CASSTI was a response to the evolving landscape of surgical training. The traditional apprenticeship model, "See one, do one, teach one," was increasingly challenged by the rapid advancements in medical technology and procedures. CASSTI offered a more comprehensive and standardized approach, ensuring that healthcare professionals were equipped with the necessary skills to meet the demands of modern medicine.

Over the past decade, CASSTI has played a pivotal role in training a new generation of surgeons and healthcare professionals. The facility has been utilized by medical trainees, consultants, nurses, and even veterinary professionals from both local and international institutions. Through its state-of-the-art equipment and innovative training methodologies, CASSTI has contributed to the advancement of surgical care and the overall quality of healthcare in the Philippines.

It also took a little time for people to get used to the idea of practicing on models, especially the more novel and creative ones used to simulate the human anatomy using mixed materials and parts. Dr. Deo, Dr. Eugene, and Dr. Jose Antonio M. Salud, then Chairman of the Department of Surgery, inspired a change of mindset over the years after they continued to champion for medical practitioners to maximize the training capabilities of CASSTI.

Today, CASSTI stands as a testament to the success of simulation-based training. It is a state-of-the-art facility that is widely used by medical trainees, consultants, nurses, and healthcare professionals from around the world. By providing a safe and controlled environment for practice, CASSTI has helped to improve patient outcomes and advance the field of surgery.

CASSTI offers multiple facilities for various requirement