Cadaveric Simulation Training in Cardiothoracic Surgery: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Thoracic Surgery

Background:

• Simulation training is integral to surgical education, but its models, goals, and effectiveness vary.
• The specific role and efficacy of cadaveric simulation in cardiothoracic surgical training are not well-established.
• Existing literature lacks comprehensive evaluation of cadaveric simulation's utility in this specialty.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the existing medical literature on the utility and effectiveness of cadaveric simulation in cardiothoracic surgical residency training.
• To identify and analyze studies assessing cadaveric models for surgical skill development.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted across major databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL) up to February 2019.
• Eleven eligible articles were identified and analyzed for study design, participants, simulation tasks, performance metrics, and costs.
• Data extraction focused on descriptive aspects and reported outcomes of cadaveric simulation models.

Main Results:

• Most studies described cadaveric or perfused cadaveric simulation models for augmenting clinical training.
• A significant lack of evidence specifically evaluating the utility and efficacy of cadavers in cardiothoracic surgery training was found.
• The few available studies suggest cadaveric simulation has a role beyond basic skill acquisition.

Conclusions:

• Cadaveric simulation appears to hold potential for advanced training in cardiothoracic surgery.
• There is a critical need for more rigorous research to establish the definitive utility and effectiveness of cadaveric simulation in this surgical field.
• Further studies are required to validate its role in enhancing surgical residency education.