A didactic and hands-on module enhances resident microsurgical knowledge and technical skill.

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Medical Simulation
• Surgical Education

Background:

• Simulation is a valuable healthcare training tool, but its use in neurosurgery is limited by a lack of validated assessment tools and curricula.
• Neurosurgical training requires specialized skills, particularly in microanastomosis, which are traditionally learned through lengthy apprenticeships.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a validated microanastomosis simulation module on neurosurgery residents' performance.
• To assess the effectiveness of an educational intervention incorporating didactic and technical components.

Main Methods:

• A microanastomosis module involving a 3-mm vessel was implemented.
• Participants underwent cognitive and microsuture testing before and after a didactic lecture.
• Performance was assessed using a validated scale measuring technical proficiency and knowledge.

Main Results:

• Participants showed significant improvement in microsuture test scores (32.50 to 39.75, P = .001) and cognitive test scores (8.38 to 12.75, P = .001).
• 75% of participants increased the number of completed sutures post-intervention (P = .03).
• Residents with no prior microsurgery experience demonstrated enhanced skills.

Conclusions:

• A focused microsurgical simulation module can significantly enhance neurosurgery residents' knowledge and technical proficiency.
• Simulation-based education, including didactic and technical elements, holds potential for improving resident training and skill levels in neurosurgery.