Cardiac surgery simulation: a low-cost feasible option in an Australasian setting

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Cardiothoracic Surgery

Background:

• Cardiothoracic Surgery training opportunities are limited by high costs and resource constraints.
• Existing simulation training is often restricted to formal college programs or industry workshops.
• There is a need for accessible, low-cost simulation methods in surgical education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the establishment of a low-cost cardiac simulation program.
• To assess the feasibility and impact of this program on surgical trainees.
• To provide a model for implementing simulation-based training in resource-limited settings.

Main Methods:

• Utilized low-cost materials from hospital facilities, hardware stores, and abattoirs for model creation.
• Developed simulation workshops focusing on coronary anastomoses, aortic, and mitral valve replacement.
• Employed porcine hearts and donated materials for realistic surgical practice.

Main Results:

• Attended by 45 participants across various training levels (nurses, students, residents, registrars).
• Demonstrated significant improvements in knowledge of anatomy, imaging, and procedural components.
• Showed enhanced practical ability in describing and completing surgical steps.

Conclusions:

• Low-cost simulation-based training in cardiac surgery is feasible within a hospital setting.
• This approach benefits trainees at all levels and can supplement existing surgical training programs.
• The model offers a cost-effective solution for enhancing cardiothoracic surgical education.