Off-the-job training for VATS employing anatomically correct lung models

Area of Science:

• Thoracic Surgery
• Surgical Education
• Medical Simulation

Background:

• Video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) requires specialized training.
• Traditional training methods may lack sufficient hands-on practice for complex procedures.
• Developing effective off-the-job training is crucial for surgical skill acquisition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the utility of anatomically correct sponge lung models for off-the-job training in VATS lobectomy.
• To assess trainee interest and perceived realism of the simulation method.
• To determine the suitability of this simulation for training new thoracic surgeons.

Main Methods:

• Seventy-six surgeons participated in simulated VATS lobectomy using sponge-based anatomically correct lung models.
• Participants performed surgical techniques on vessels and bronchi using standard instruments.
• Post-simulation questionnaires assessed interest and realism on a visual analogue scale (0-10).

Main Results:

• The simulation achieved a mean interest score of 8.3 out of 10.
• The perceived realism of the training method scored a mean of 7.0 out of 10.
• Participants reported feeling realistic surgical sensations and expressed satisfaction with the simulation.

Conclusions:

• The simulated lung resection using anatomically correct sponge models is a valuable training tool.
• The method demonstrates high levels of trainee engagement and perceived realism.
• This simulation is suitable for off-the-job surgical training in VATS lobectomy.