Plaster cast removal simulation model for resident training.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Simulation Training

Background:

• Complications from cast removal, though infrequent, can lead to permanent skin damage.
• Formal training in cast removal techniques is often limited during orthopedic residency programs.
• Developing effective training tools is crucial for improving resident proficiency and patient safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a novel plaster cast removal simulation model for orthopedic resident training.
• To assess the effectiveness of the simulation model in improving resident performance in cast removal.
• To compare resident performance post-training with expert benchmarks.

Main Methods:

• A quasiexperimental study utilizing a pediatric forearm phantom with embedded temperature sensors.
• Six first-year orthopedic residents underwent pre-training evaluation, instruction, and post-training evaluation.
• Performance was measured using the Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS), Specific Ratings Scale (SRS), procedure time, and temperature monitoring.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements were observed in OSATS and SRS scores after the simulation-based training (p<0.05).
• No significant differences were found in procedure time or temperature changes between pre- and post-training assessments.
• Post-training resident performance, assessed by OSATS and SRS, did not significantly differ from expert performance.

Conclusions:

• The developed plaster cast removal simulation model is an effective tool for resident training.
• The simulation enables residents to achieve expert-level competency in cast removal techniques.
• The model positively impacts resident skill acquisition, as evidenced by improved assessment scores.