Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 7, 2026
Simulator Training for Endovascular Neurosurgery
Published on: May 6, 2020
Experience with a simulator-based angiography course for neurosurgical residents: beyond a pilot program
Kyle M Fargen1, Adam S Arthur, Bernard R Bendok
1*Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida; ‡Semmes-Murphey Clinic/University of Tennessee, Department of Neurosurgery, Memphis, Tennessee; §Department of Neurosurgery, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois; ¶Department of Neurosurgery, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, New York; ‖Department of Neurosurgery, Mayfield Clinic, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio; #Department of Neurosurgery, Capital Health Institute for Neurosciences, Trenton, New Jersey; **Department of Neurosurgery, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee.
Simulator training for cerebral angiography significantly improved neurosurgery residents' knowledge and technical skills. This simulation curriculum, delivered at national meetings, shows promise for future resident education.
Area of Science:
- Medical Simulation
- Neurosurgery Education
- Endovascular Training
Background:
- Simulation offers a valuable teaching method amidst duty hour restrictions in medical training.
- A diagnostic cerebral angiography simulator curriculum pilot program was expanded to national neurosurgery meetings.
- The program aimed to assess the effectiveness of simulator-based training for neurosurgery residents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the outcomes of a simulator-based cerebral angiography training course.
- To report on the effectiveness of the curriculum when delivered at national conferences.
- To assess improvements in both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Main Methods:
- A 120-minute simulator-based training course was conducted at two Congress of Neurological Surgeons (CNS) annual meetings.
- Participants underwent pre- and post-course written and practical skills assessments using an endovascular simulator.
- Instructor-guided training sessions were provided on the simulator.
Main Results:
- Thirty-seven neurosurgery residents completed the course.
- Post-course written scores significantly improved compared to pre-course scores (P < .001).
- Instructor assessments showed significant improvements in practical skills post-training for all participants (P < .001).
Conclusions:
- The expanded simulator program demonstrated significant improvements in neurosurgery residents' written scores and technical skills.
- Simulator training for cerebral angiography is effective and may become a key part of future resident education.
- Advancements in simulation technology enhance the realism and potential integration of this training method.