Development of a standardized curriculum for teaching cystoscopic skills using a computer-based endourologic...

Area of Science:

• Medical Simulation
• Urology Education

Background:

• Simulation offers a viable alternative for endoscopic skills training outside clinical settings.
• This study evaluates the learning curve and user experience of a computer-based cystoscopic simulator.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the learning curve for novice subjects using a computer-based cystoscopic simulator.
• To evaluate subjective impressions of cystoscopic tasks performed by untrained individuals.

Main Methods:

• Ten novice subjects trained on a URO Mentor simulator using a standardized curriculum.
• Performance was evaluated until a steady state was achieved; subjective feedback was collected.

Main Results:

• A median of six training sessions was needed to reach a steady state of performance.
• Significant performance improvements were observed with simulator time (P<0.001).
• Novices reported the simulator was realistic and easy to use, increasing perceived competency.

Conclusions:

• Computer-based simulators can be effectively integrated into cystoscopy training curricula.
• Six training sessions were generally sufficient for simulated rigid and flexible cystoscope tasks.
• Objective performance improved with experience, and subjective confidence increased post-training.