Role of simulation-based training in thoracic anaesthesia

Simulation-based training (SBT) aims to acquire technical and non-technical skills in a simulated fashion without harming the patient. Simulation helps the anaesthesiologist acquire procedural competence and non-technical abilities. In thoracic anaesthesia, various simulators are available with varying degrees of fidelity and costs. Apart from improving bronchoscopy-related skills, other potential applications of SBT include the practice of lung isolation in normal and difficult airway scenarios, troubleshooting complications during surgeries, and certification of the proficiency of anaesthesiologists. A pragmatic approach is required for choosing the simulator based on its availability, cost, and benefits. Although the literature supports SBT to improve procedural skills, retention of the skills and their translation into improving clinical outcomes remain largely unproven. Randomised, controlled studies targeting the effect of SBT on the improvement of clinical outcomes of patients are needed to prove their worth.