Structured ultrasonography workshop for breast surgeons: is it an effective training tool?

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

• Effective training is crucial for surgeon-performed ultrasonography (US) and guided breast needle biopsies (USGBB).
• This study evaluated the efficacy of a structured workshop for teaching breast US and guided biopsy techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the effectiveness of a structured workshop in teaching breast ultrasonography (US) and guided breast needle biopsy (USGBB) techniques.
• To assess the impact of theoretical and practical training components on surgeon performance.

Main Methods:

• A workshop divided into theoretical (pretests, lectures, posttests) and practical (biopsy simulations) components was conducted.
• Participants' performance was assessed before and after instruction, with complications noted.
• Student's t-test was used to compare pre- and post-instruction results.

Main Results:

• A 33% improvement in theoretical knowledge and a 56% improvement in practical skills were observed post-workshop.
• The moderate experience group showed the most significant improvement in practical skills (83%).
• Complication rates decreased from two to zero after instruction, particularly for less experienced surgeons.

Conclusions:

• Structured workshops are effective for surgeon training in breast US and USGBB.
• Both theoretical and practical components are integral and demonstrate similar efficacy.
• Formal training in these procedures reduces complication rates, especially for inexperienced surgeons.