Simulation training program for vacuum application to improve technical skills in vacuum-assisted vaginal delivery

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Medical Simulation
• Surgical Skills Training

Background:

• Operative vaginal delivery is a critical obstetric procedure.
• Effective training is essential for mastering the use of delivery devices like the kiwi-cup.
• Assessing technical skills in a simulated environment allows for objective evaluation and improvement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a simulation training program on the technical skills of residents using the kiwi-cup for operative vaginal delivery.
• To assess improvements in successful application rates and procedural time after simulation training.

Main Methods:

• Thirty-five obstetrics and gynecology residents participated in the study.
• Technical skills were assessed using a standardized scale (0-55 points) before and after an 8-week simulation training program.
• Participants performed simulated operative vaginal deliveries using the kiwi-cup, with evaluations conducted by a tutor.

Main Results:

• Technical skills significantly improved post-training (46.27 ± 4.6, p < 0.0001).
• The successful application rate of the kiwi-cup increased to 85.71% (p = 0.0161).
• Procedural time was significantly reduced after simulation training (86.2 ± 29.9 s, p < 0.0001).

Conclusions:

• Simulation training is highly effective in enhancing technical proficiency for operative vaginal delivery with the kiwi-cup.
• The training program leads to improved success rates and reduced procedure times, crucial for patient safety.
• This approach offers a valuable method for skill development in obstetric residents.