Acquisition of basic microsurgery skills using home-based simulation training: A randomised control study

Area of Science:

• Surgical Education
• Microsurgery Training
• Medical Simulation

Background:

• Acquiring fine motor skills for microsurgery is challenging with current training systems.
• There is a growing need for effective training and assessment methods outside clinical settings.
• This study evaluates three novel microsurgical training models.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of three microsurgical training models: laboratory microscope (LM), home microscope (HM), and home tablet (HT).
• To assess skill acquisition in microsurgery through objective performance metrics.

Main Methods:

• A randomized control trial involving 39 participants allocated to control, LM, HM, and HT groups.
• Participants performed a chicken femoral artery anastomosis at baseline and post-training.
• Performance was assessed using the structured assessment of microsurgery skills (SAMS) score, time to complete anastomosis, and suture placement time.

Main Results:

• No significant baseline differences were observed between groups.
• All training groups showed significant improvement in SAMS score, anastomosis time, and suture placement time.
• A reduction in leak rate was noted, with no statistical differences among training arms.

Conclusions:

• Home-based microsurgery training using HM or HT yields results comparable to LM training in early skill acquisition.
• Home microsurgery training is a practical, accessible, and cost-effective method for skill development.
• Trainees can effectively practice and own their technical skill progression through home-based modalities.