Utility of modern arthroscopic simulator training models

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Medical Education
• Surgical Simulation

Background:

• Arthroscopic surgical procedures require specialized skills.
• Simulator training offers a controlled environment for skill acquisition.
• The transferability of simulator-trained skills to clinical practice is a key area of investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the literature on arthroscopic simulator training models.
• To assess the ability of skills learned on simulators to transfer to the operating room.
• To determine the learning curve for translating simulator skills to surgical practice.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review adhering to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.
• Inclusion of 19 studies focusing on shoulder, knee, and hip arthroscopy simulators.
• Descriptive analysis of data due to methodological heterogeneity across studies.

Main Results:

• 100% of studies comparing experience levels showed a positive correlation between experience and simulator performance.
• 6 out of 8 studies reported improved performance after simulator training.
• Only one study indicated improved operating room performance; none quantified the training needed for skill transfer.

Conclusions:

• Arthroscopic simulator practice enhances performance on the simulators themselves.
• Current evidence is insufficient to definitively conclude that simulator training improves operating room skills.
• Further research is required to establish the optimal training protocols for skill translation in arthroscopic surgery.