Measurable learning effects after a 1-week skills course in digestive surgery

Area of Science:

• Surgical Education
• Gastrointestinal Surgery
• Medical Training

Background:

• Surgical training requires continuous skill development.
• Digestive surgery involves complex techniques like anastomosis and suturing.
• Assessing the impact of skills courses is crucial for curriculum development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the learning effects of a surgical skills course.
• To assess improvements in theoretical knowledge, anastomosis techniques, and suturing skills.
• To determine the efficacy of a focused surgical training program.

Main Methods:

• 108 participants completed pre- and post-course knowledge tests and self-evaluations.
• Practical exercises included conventional and laparoscopic digestive surgery techniques.
• 36 participants performed and were video-recorded performing handsewn anastomosis for skill assessment.

Main Results:

• Participant satisfaction with knowledge acquisition was high.
• Confidence in performing simple and complex anastomosis significantly increased (p < 0.001).
• Intestinal suture scores improved significantly, with reduced completion time (p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

• Surgical skills courses are an effective part of surgical training.
• These courses have a sustained impact on skill development.
• Integration into future surgical curricula is recommended.