Pediatric Web-based Video Capsule Endoscopy Curriculum: A Pilot Study to Determine the Ability to Implement a...

Video capsule endoscopy (VCE) is a noninvasive modality to broadly image the gastrointestinal tract. Previously, the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition and its endoscopy committee noted a lack of standardized pediatric VCE training. It was hypothesized that a web-based curriculum could be broadly implemented and help to enhance comfort and develop VCE skills.

A pilot web-based VCE curriculum was created using REDCap database. An email invitation asking for participation was sent to a pediatric gastroenterology Listserv. Baseline comfort and knowledge regarding VCE skills were measured. Educational links and materials were provided following which participants completed VCE cases with immediate feedback. Finally, participants completed a posttest and a survey to complete the curriculum.

Fifty-two participants began the curriculum of which 37 (71%) partially completed, 12 (23%) completed, and 3 (6%) withdrew. Significant improvement was noted regarding self-reported mean comfort level in explaining indications (P = 0.0097), contraindications (P = 0.0036), managing complications (P = 0.0048), using VCE software (P = 0.00035), and interpreting VCE findings (P = 0.00015). Participants showed significant improvement in knowledge (P = 0.041) and photo recognition posttests (P = 0.015). All participants who completed the curriculum found it helpful and reported that they would recommend it to their colleagues.

This pilot curriculum demonstrated an improvement in participant self-reported comfort and an increase in VCE knowledge. Further resources would make a web-based curriculum easier to navigate and complete. Providing Continuation of Medical Education and Maintenance of Certification credits for future curricular iterations would provide an opportunity for training with recognition for pediatric gastroenterologists.