Toward a simulation and assessment method for the practice of camera-guided rigid bronchoscopy

Area of Science:

• Medical Simulation
• Surgical Performance Analysis
• Respiratory Medicine

Background:

• Rigid bronchoscopy is a critical procedure for airway examination and intervention.
• Objective performance metrics for rigid bronchoscopy training are needed.
• Simulations offer a safe environment to assess surgical skills.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a manikin-based simulation for measuring performance during camera-guided rigid bronchoscopy.
• To quantify differences in soft tissue contact and pressure between novice and expert rigid bronchoscopists.

Main Methods:

• A commercially available bronchoscopy task trainer was instrumented with pressure sensors.
• Participants were categorized as novice or expert based on experience.
• Performance was evaluated by measuring time, tissue contact areas, and applied pressures.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in procedure time was observed between novices and experts.
• Novices contacted significantly more airway areas, indicating unnecessary soft tissue interaction.
• Experts exerted significantly lower soft tissue pressures compared to novices.

Conclusions:

• Manikin-based simulation with pressure sensors effectively differentiates novice and expert performance in rigid bronchoscopy.
• Novices demonstrate less refined airway navigation, leading to increased tissue contact and pressure.
• This simulation method can inform training programs to improve patient safety.