Simulated colonoscopy training using a low-cost physical model improves responsiveness of surgery interns

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Simulation
• Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

Background:

• Surgery residents require colonoscopy proficiency before training completion.
• Evaluating novel training methods is crucial for surgical skill development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effectiveness of simulated colonoscopy training for surgery interns.
• To measure performance improvements in a physical colonoscopy model.

Main Methods:

• Postgraduate year 1 residents trained on a physical colonoscopy model with synthetic anatomy.
• Baseline and final testing evaluated performance using proficiency criteria and blinded assessors.
• Responsiveness was measured by performance change from baseline to final testing.

Main Results:

• Overall procedure time decreased significantly (24:46 to 20:54, P=0.03).
• Key metrics like splenic and hepatic flexure intubation times improved (P<0.01).
• Incomplete colonoscopies decreased from 100% to 33.3% (P=0.042).

Conclusions:

• Simulated colonoscopy training in a low-cost physical model enhances surgery intern performance.
• Training led to reduced procedure times and improved rates of complete colonoscopy.
• This method offers a viable approach to surgical skill acquisition in endoscopy.