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Step By Step: Microsurgical training method combining two nonliving animal models
Published on: May 9, 2015
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Microsurgery simulation training system and set up: An essential system to complement every training programme
Dhalia Masud1, Nadine Haram2, Margarita Moustaki3
1Microsurgery Institute 4 (MI4), Guys & St Thomas' Hospital, London SE1 7EH, UK.
Summary
A new microsurgical training program significantly improved trainee skills, as measured by the Structured Assessment of Microsurgical Skills (SAMS) score. This validated, cost-effective method allows proficiency assessment in a safe, non-pressurized setting.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Surgical Education
Background:
- Microsurgical techniques are crucial in plastic surgery but challenging to acquire due to inconsistent training.
- A standardized laboratory-based microsurgical training program was developed to address skill acquisition difficulties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a novel, standardized laboratory-based microsurgical training program.
- To assess the impact of the program on trainees' dexterity, visuospatial ability, operative flow, and judgment.
Main Methods:
- Thirty trainees initially performed a microsurgical anastomosis on a chicken femoral artery, assessed via the Structured Assessment of Microsurgical Skills (SAMS).
- A study group (n=18) underwent a 3-month training program, while a control group (n=19) did not.
- A final anastomosis was performed by all trainees for post-training assessment.
Main Results:
- The study group showed significant improvement in SAMS scores (24 to 49, p<0.05), while the control group had minimal improvement (23 to 25).
- Final SAMS scores in the study group approached those of senior surgeons (49 vs. 58).
Conclusions:
- The validated training program offers a safe, cost-effective, and flexible method for developing microsurgical skills.
- The program allows for objective assessment of trainee proficiency in a non-pressurized environment before patient procedures.
