Far forward feasibility: testing a cricothyroidotmy simulator in Iraq

Area of Science:

• Medical Simulation and Training
• Surgical Education Technology
• Combat Medicine

Background:

• Traditional training methods for cricothyroidotomy may be limited in deployed environments.
• Virtual reality (VR) simulators offer a potential solution for advanced medical skills training.
• Evaluating the feasibility and effectiveness of VR in austere settings is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the utility of the CricSim VR simulator for training combat medics in cricothyroidotomy.
• To evaluate the impact of VR simulation on medic confidence and skill acquisition.
• To gather user feedback for the refinement of VR training platforms in deployed locations.

Main Methods:

• Sixty-five combat medics utilized the CricSim VR simulator during a Combat Medic Advanced Skills Training course in Iraq.
• Participants completed pre- and post-simulation self-assessments of their comfort level with the procedure.
• User feedback was collected regarding the simulator's realism and ease of use.

Main Results:

• A statistically significant improvement in self-assessed comfort with cricothyroidotomy was observed (p<5.6 x 10(-17)).
• The CricSim simulator received high ratings for its realism.
• Ease of use was rated moderately, indicating areas for potential improvement.

Conclusions:

• The CricSim VR simulator is a feasible and effective tool for enhancing cricothyroidotomy training for combat medics in deployed settings.
• VR simulation significantly boosts medic confidence in performing emergency surgical airways.
• End-user feedback is vital for the iterative development of advanced medical training technologies.