Congenital Heart Surgery Skill Training Using Simulation Models: Not an Option but a Necessity

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Medical Simulation
• Surgical Education

Background:

• Congenital heart surgery (CHS) training traditionally relies on preceptorship, exposing trainees to patients under supervision.
• Operating room training is inefficient, and the learning curve concept is unacceptable for patient safety.
• Previous surgical simulation models for CHS were scarce and lacked realism.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the benefits and necessity of advanced surgical simulation in congenital heart surgery training.
• To introduce novel 3D printing and silicone-molding techniques for creating realistic CHS simulation models.
• To advocate for mandatory simulation training for all congenital heart surgeons.

Main Methods:

• Development of realistic, silicone-molded surgical simulation models using 3D printing technology.
• Utilizing these models for stress-free, efficient training with immediate feedback from proctors.
• Comparing simulation training to aviation industry standards for pilot training.

Main Results:

• Realistic simulation models for most congenital heart surgical procedures are now available.
• Silicone-molded models enable efficient, stress-free CHS training with instant feedback.
• Simulation training effectively bypasses patient risk and the traditional learning curve.

Conclusions:

• Surgical simulation is crucial for congenital heart surgeon training, offering a safe and effective learning environment.
• The development of advanced 3D printed and silicone-molded models has overcome previous limitations in CHS simulation.
• Simulation training should transition from optional to a mandatory component of congenital heart surgery education.