Defining the learning curve for thulium Laser

Objective: To quantitatively analyze the learning curve for thulium laser Methods: In this single-surgeon, retrospective cohort study, the initial 86 consecutive TL-ERBT cases were reviewed. Operation time was used as the primary outcome. Learning curve analysis was performed using moving average and cumulative sum (CUSUM) methods. Results: Among 79 successfully completed TL-ERBTs, the mean operation time was 31.6 ± 10.3 min. CUSUM analysis identified a turning point at case 32, separating the Learning phase (cases 1-32) from the Proficiency phase (cases 33-86). Operation time significantly decreased from 37.8 ± 9.2 min in the Learning phase to 27.8 ± 8.1 min in the Proficiency phase ( Conclusion: For a surgeon experienced in conventional TURBT, preliminary evidence from this study suggests that proficiency in TL-ERBT, defined primarily by operative efficiency, may be achievable after approximately 32 procedures, with significant improvements in operative efficiency and technical success; while patient safety was not compromised. These findings provide a practical quantitative benchmark for surgical training and clinical implementation.