Cadaver-Based Simulation Increases Resident Confidence, Initial Exposure to Fundamental Techniques, and May Augment...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Simulation-Based Learning

Background:

• Surgical simulation is crucial for medical education.
• Most surgical procedures involve fundamental, repeatable maneuvers.
• Cadaver-based training offers a realistic platform for skill acquisition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a cadaver-based simulation course.
• To assess improvements in resident exposure to core surgical skills.
• To quantify changes in resident and attending confidence and operative independence.

Main Methods:

• A faculty panel identified fundamental surgical procedures.
• Residents practiced skills on cadavers, categorized by PGY level.
• Video-recorded skill assessments were graded by attendings using standardized rubrics.
• Participant surveys captured changes in knowledge and confidence.

Main Results:

• Resident confidence in skill completion increased significantly (p < 0.01).
• A median of 40% of procedures were performed for the first time during the course.
• Attending-perceived resident independence in skills increased from 40% to 60% (p < 0.04).
• Attendings showed increased willingness to grant operative autonomy post-course.

Conclusions:

• Cadaveric skills courses are valuable adjuncts to surgical education.
• This simulation improved early exposure to fundamental surgical maneuvers.
• The course enhanced resident and attending confidence, fostering greater trainee autonomy.