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A Low-Cost Simulator for Training in Endoscopic-Assisted Transaxillary Dual-Plane Breast Augmentation
Chenglong Wang1, Lin Chen, Dali Mu
1From the Department of Aesthetic and Reconstructive Breast Surgery, Plastic Surgery Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
Annals of Plastic Surgery
|October 21, 2017
Summary
A new low-cost simulator effectively improves plastic surgeons' confidence and skills in endoscopic-assisted transaxillary dual-plane (EATD) breast augmentation. This training tool enhances anatomical awareness and endoscope control without surgical risks.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Surgical Simulation
- Medical Education
Background:
- Endoscopic-assisted transaxillary dual-plane (EATD) breast augmentation is popular but challenging for surgeons.
- Existing simulation methods for EATD training are often costly.
- There is a need for accessible, low-cost training solutions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel, low-cost simulator for practicing EATD breast augmentation psychomotor skills.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of this simulator in improving surgical trainees' abilities.
Main Methods:
- A low-cost simulator was constructed using a mannequin, printed T-shirt, and compression garment with anatomical markings.
- First-year plastic surgery residents utilized the simulator for training.
- Participants completed pre- and post-simulation questionnaires to assess improvement.
Main Results:
- Fifty participants demonstrated significant improvement after simulation training (P < 0.05).
- Key areas of improvement included candidate confidence, anatomical awareness, and endoscope control (dexterity, hand-eye coordination).
Conclusions:
- The developed low-cost simulator is a viable tool for enhancing EATD breast augmentation skills.
- This training method offers a risk-free approach for surgeons, particularly in resource-limited settings.
- Further research, including randomized controlled trials, is recommended to validate the simulator's efficacy.
