A national needs assessment to identify technical procedures in plastic surgery for simulation-based training

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Plastic Surgery

Background:

• Medical simulation is underdeveloped in plastic surgery compared to other specialties.
• Complex procedures in plastic surgery necessitate extensive practice.
• There is a clear need to integrate simulation into plastic surgery residency training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and prioritize technical procedures for a simulation-based curriculum in plastic surgery residency.
• To establish a consensus among experts on essential simulation training content.
• To enhance the quality and safety of plastic surgery training through simulation.

Main Methods:

• A three-round Delphi process national needs assessment was conducted.
• An expert panel of 35 participants from the Danish plastic surgery training program was convened.
• Procedures were ranked based on frequency, surgeon experience, patient risk, and simulation feasibility.

Main Results:

• 136 procedures were initially identified, with 29 reaching the final prioritized list for simulation training.
• High response rates (97%, 86%, 86%) ensured robust data collection.
• The study successfully identified key procedures crucial for simulation-based plastic surgery education.

Conclusions:

• A prioritized list of 29 procedures is essential for developing a simulation-based plastic surgery curriculum.
• Simulation training is vital for improving technical skills and patient outcomes in plastic surgery.
• This study provides a foundation for integrating simulation into plastic surgery residency programs.