Learning Electromagnetic Navigational Bronchoscopy and Percutaneous Transthoracic Needle Biopsy (LEAP): A Pilot Study

Prior studies in pulmonology have examined the validity of procedural training tools, however, translation of simulation skill acquisition into real world competency remains understudied. We examine an assessment process with a simulation training course for electromagnetic navigational (EMN) bronchoscopy and percutaneous transthoracic needle aspiration (PTTNA).

A cohort study was conducted by subjects using EMN bronchoscopy and PTTNA. A procedural assessment tool was developed to measure basic competency for EMN bronchoscopy and PTTNA at 3 different time points: first simulation case, final simulation case upon reaching a competent score, and at their first live case. The assessment tool was divided into 4 domains (total score, 4 to 16; competency ≥12) with each domain requiring a passing score (1 to 4; competency ≥3.0). Complication and procedural time were collected during their first live case.

Twenty-two serial procedures (12 EMN bronchoscopies, 10 EMN PTTNA) were observed by 14 subjects. The mean first simulation score for EMN bronchoscopy (4.66±0.89) improved after cadaver simulation (12.67±0.89, median 3 simulations attempts). The subjects' mean score for their first live case was 13.0±0.85 (self-reported score 12.5±1.07). For EMN PTTNA, the mean first simulation score (4.3±2.40) improved after cadaver simulation (12.6±1.51, median 3 simulation attempts). The subjects' mean score for their first live PTTNA case was 12.5±2.87 (self-reported score 12.1±1.05). There was only 1 minor complication.

Learning EMN bronchoscopy/PTTNA is feasible using a structured simulation course with an assessment tool.