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Evaluation of hands-on training in colonoscopy: is a computer-based simulator useful?
Alessandra Elvevi1, Paolo Cantù, Giovanni Maconi
1Chair of Gastroenterology, Università degli Studi di Milano, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda - Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.
Summary
Computer-based simulators did not effectively measure colonoscopy skills in trainees. Performance on the simulator did not correlate with hands-on training competence, suggesting limited utility in objective assessment.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Simulation
Background:
- The utility of computer-based simulators for colonoscopy training is debated.
- Objective measurement of colonoscopy competence is crucial for effective training.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the usefulness of a computer-based simulator in objectively measuring colonoscopy trainees' competence.
- To compare simulator performance with hands-on training outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Twelve colonoscopy trainees and 15 experts used a computer-based simulator (GI-Mentor).
- Participants performed two randomized simulations (easy and difficult) before and during hands-on training.
- Key metrics assessed included time to caecal intubation and withdrawal time.
Main Results:
- Trainees showed improvement in caecal intubation time during hands-on training.
- All trainees achieved caecal intubation in simulations both before and during training.
- Simulator performance did not correlate with hands-on training performance.
Conclusions:
- Computer-based simulators were not found to be useful for evaluating colonoscopy competence during hands-on training.
- The study suggests limitations in using current simulators for objective assessment of procedural skills.
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