Simulated lumbar minimally invasive surgery educational model with didactic and technical components.

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Medical Education
• Surgical Simulation

Background:

• Technical skill acquisition is crucial for neurosurgical trainees.
• Simulator-based learning models are advancing due to efficiency and proficiency needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To validate an educational curriculum for minimally invasive pedicle screw placement.
• To assess a computer-enhanced physical model for percutaneous pedicle screw placement training.

Main Methods:

• A 2-hour curriculum covered anatomy, pathophysiology, and image-guided pedicle screw placement.
• Pre- and post-curriculum written and practical scores were analyzed.
• Scores evaluated optimal screw placement using fluoroscopy and CT navigation.

Main Results:

• Written didactic scores improved from 78% to 100%.
• Technical scores for fluoroscopic guidance improved from 58.8 to 52.9.
• Technical scores for CT-navigated guidance improved from 28.3 to 26.6.

Conclusions:

• Simulator-based curriculum objectively improved resident performance in didactic and technical skills.
• Minimally invasive spine simulation models offer value for neurosurgical education and patient outcomes.