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Updated: Dec 12, 2025

Creation of Patient-Specific Silicone Cardiac Models with Applications in Pre-surgical Plans and Hands-on Training
Published on: February 10, 2022
Enhancement in virtual learning cannot substitute for hands-on training in cardiothoracic surgery
Nestor Villamizar1, Dao M Nguyen1
1Thoracic Surgery Section, Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, DeWitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, Florida.
The coronavirus 2019 pandemic impacted cardiothoracic surgery training. While virtual sessions improved attendance, reduced hands-on experience may hinder surgical skill development.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Surgical Training
- Public Health
Background:
- The coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic significantly disrupted medical training globally.
- Cardiothoracic surgery programs faced unprecedented challenges in maintaining educational standards.
- Assessing the pandemic's impact on surgical training is crucial for future curriculum development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on cardiothoracic surgery training programs.
- To understand program directors' perspectives on pandemic-related changes in surgical education.
- To identify challenges and potential benefits of adapted training modalities.
Main Methods:
- A survey was distributed to program directors in cardiothoracic surgery.
- The survey collected data on changes in didactic sessions, simulation, and clinical case volumes.
- Data analysis focused on perceived impacts on surgical skill acquisition and competency.
Main Results:
- Transition to virtual didactic sessions led to increased attendance.
- A notable decrease in live simulation experiences and surgical case volumes was reported.
- Concerns were raised regarding the potential negative impact on achieving surgical competency.
Conclusions:
- The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated rapid adaptation in cardiothoracic surgery training.
- Virtual learning modalities offer advantages in didactic engagement but require complementary strategies for skill development.
- Maintaining surgical competency requires addressing the reduction in hands-on training opportunities.
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