Teaching Middle Ear Anatomy and Basic Ear Surgery Skills: A Qualitative Study Comparing Endoscopic and Microscopic...

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Medical Education
• Surgical Anatomy

Background:

• Endoscopic ear surgery is increasingly used for middle ear diseases.
• Clinical implementation necessitates updates in teaching middle ear anatomy and surgical techniques.
• Optimizing training requires understanding perceptions of endoscopic versus microscopic approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the perception and preference of endoscopy versus microscopy for teaching middle ear anatomy and surgical skills.
• To evaluate these perceptions across different educational levels (medical students, residents, staff).

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study utilizing thematic analysis.
• Focus groups conducted with participants after a standardized anatomy and surgical skills curriculum.
• Interviews were video recorded, transcribed, and analyzed to identify key themes.

Main Results:

• A clear preference for endoscopy in anatomy teaching was observed, attributed to enhanced overview and perception of anatomical details.
• For surgical skills acquisition, participants noted advantages for endoscopy (shared surgical view) and microscopy (two-handed technique), with no definitive preference.
• Participants included medical students, otorhinolaryngology residents, and staff members.

Conclusions:

• Endoscopy is generally considered more beneficial for teaching complex middle ear anatomy due to superior visualization.
• Both endoscopic and microscopic techniques are crucial for future otologic surgeons.
• Curricula should integrate the unique benefits of both techniques for comprehensive otologic education.