Evaluation of video tape and a simulator for instruction of basic surgical skills

Twenty first-year veterinary students with no prior participatory experience in surgery were randomly paired and assigned into two study groups. Ten students (group V) viewed a hemostatic technique video tape until they thought they could competently perform and assist in performing a hand-tied ligature on a blood vessel in a live animal. Ten students (group VS) wer also given a simulator for technique practice. Paired students were video recorded and blindly evaluated on their ability to perform and assist proper ligation of a bleeding vessel. Inexpensive hemostasis models were very helpful for teaching students essential surgeon and assistant skills involved in hand-tied ligature placement. Students who practiced with simulators performed significantly better as surgeon and assistant, and in total psychomotor skill evaluation, then students watching the video only. Students using simulators performed ligation with significantly more accuracy and tended to be more expeditious at this task. Further training is needed for students to acquire skills necessary for efficient bleeding vessel exposure and isolation.