Remote training and evaluation of a simulator-based training course for complex endovascular procedures

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Endovascular Interventions
• Surgical Simulation

Background:

• Knowledge of materials in endovascular aortic interventions is crucial for medical staff.
• Hands-on training for endovascular interventions has been significantly impacted by the pandemic.
• A novel training course was developed to address these limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a new training course for endovascular interventions.
• To assess the impact of an educational video on trainee performance and knowledge transfer.
• To explore methods for reducing radiation exposure during interventions.

Main Methods:

• A video demonstrating cannulation of the left renal artery in a silicon aortic cast was created.
• Trainees were randomized into control and intervention groups, with the intervention group receiving additional video-based training.
• Performance was assessed using a standardized rating scale (OSATS global rating scale).

Main Results:

• No significant difference in initial performance between control and intervention groups.
• The intervention group showed significant improvement in all assessed metrics after additional training.
• 23 trainees participated, with performance recorded and analyzed.

Conclusions:

• Simulator-based training enhances trainees' understanding and performance of endovascular skills.
• Standardized validation of simulators can improve their acceptance and integration into medical training.
• Educational recordings offer a valuable adjunct to traditional training methods.