Related Experiment Videos
Surgeon-Reported Needs for Improved Training in Identifying and Managing Free Flap Compromise
Catherine McMillan1, Veerle D'Hondt1,2, Alexandra H Marshall3
1Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Journal of Reconstructive Microsurgery
|April 12, 2017
Summary
Plastic surgery training for free flap (FF) compromise is inadequate. Simulated scenario training shows promise for improving resident preparedness in identifying and managing FF complications.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Microsurgery Education
- Surgical Training
Background:
- Current plastic surgery training programs have an insufficient volume of free flap (FF) cases.
- There is a recognized need to improve the identification and management of FF compromise.
- Existing training lacks adequate exposure to both normal and abnormal FF cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the need for enhanced training in free flap compromise.
- To evaluate the potential of simulated scenario training for improving resident education.
- To identify barriers in current microsurgery education for FF management.
Main Methods:
- Online needs assessment surveys distributed to plastic surgeons.
- Focus group discussions with microsurgery education experts.
- Descriptive statistics and mixed qualitative methods for data analysis.
Main Results:
- 64% of educators reported insufficient FF case volume for training.
- 43% of educators believed residents are unprepared for independent FF compromise management.
- 74% of educators found simulated scenario training highly useful for residents.
Conclusions:
- Inadequate trainee exposure to FF compromise necessitates improved training strategies.
- Standardized algorithms and increased case volume are crucial for effective FF management training.
- Simulated scenario training offers a valuable adjunct to address current educational barriers.