Implementing a simulation-based curriculum for hybrid intracavitary/interstitial brachytherapy using a new,...

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Radiation Oncology
• Gynecologic Oncology

Background:

• Hybrid intracavitary/interstitial (IC/IS) brachytherapy is a complex technique for gynecologic cancers.
• Standardized training for IC/IS brachytherapy is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
• A need exists for realistic simulation tools to teach these advanced brachytherapy skills.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a simulation-based workshop for teaching hybrid IC/IS brachytherapy skills.
• To utilize a novel, US/CT/MRI-compatible gynecologic phantom prototype for hands-on training.
• To assess the impact of the workshop on resident knowledge, confidence, and procedural ability.

Main Methods:

• A workshop was designed using the VIOMERSE gynecological trainer phantom, featuring tissue-like colloid material and multi-modality imaging compatibility.
• Training covered pre-implant planning, procedural steps for implant placement, and post-implant evaluation.
• Workshop effectiveness was measured using pre- and post-workshop surveys analyzed with the Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-rank test.

Main Results:

• Thirteen residents participated in three 1-hour sessions, covering applicator placement, needle insertion, and image review.
• Significant improvements were observed in residents' knowledge, confidence, and ability to plan and execute hybrid IC/IS procedures.
• All residents rated the workshop highly, with 12 out of 13 scoring it a 10/10 for effectiveness.

Conclusions:

• The simulation-based workshop using the novel phantom prototype was successful in enhancing resident brachytherapy skills.
• The training demonstrated clear subjective benefits, improving resident confidence and competence in hybrid IC/IS brachytherapy.
• This approach can inform the standardization of brachytherapy curricula and increase trainee exposure to interstitial techniques.