Low-Cost Simulation Training Program for Endoscopic Sinus Surgery: Optimizing the Basic Skills Level

Andrés Rosenbaum1 , Soledad Palma1,2, Tamara Muñoz3 , Francisco García-Huidobro1 , Claudia González1 , Julián Varas4 and Claudio Andrés Callejas1 *

1 Department of Otolaryngology, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Chile 2 Department of Otolaryngology, Hospital Sotero Del Rio, Chile 3 Department of Otolaryngology, Hospital San Juan de Dios de La Serena, Chile 4 Center for Simulation and Experimental Surgery, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Chile

^*Correspondance to: Claudio Andrés Callejas 

 PDF  Full Text DOI: 10.25107/2474-1647.3083

Abstract

Purpose: To develop and validate a low-cost simulation model and training program for the acquisition of basic skills in endoscopic sinus surgery, and a Specific Rating Scale (SRS) for the tasks performed in the model. Materials and Methods: Experimental study. An eight-task low-cost simulation model was developed based on feeding bottles. Junior residents (R1), general otolaryngologists (ENT) and fellowship trained rhinologists (FSH) were recorded performing each task. Operative Time (OT) and number of errors (ERR) were measured. Videos were evaluated by two blinded experts using a validated Global Rating Scale (GRS) and SRS. A group of residents completed a six-session training program via deliberate practice and then were recorded and evaluated using the same methodology. Results: Twenty-five participants were recruited. Statistically significant higher scores in the GRS and SRS, and lower OT and ERR at higher levels of expertise were found. A significant correlation between SRS and GRS was found. Seven R1 completed the training program. A significant median improvement of SRS and GRS scores, and a significant median reduction of OT and ERR were observed after training. Moreover, significant fewer ERR were made by R1 after training compared with experts, and no significant differences were found among these groups in terms of performance quality and OT. Conclusion: Our low-cost simulation model can be accurately used as a validated objective assessment and training tool for basic endoscopic skills necessary for FESS, and can be potentially used in any otolaryngology surgical training program for residents.

Keywords

Endoscopic sinus surgery; Simulation training; Validation; Medical education

Cite the article

Rosenbaum A, Palma S, Muñoz T, García-Huidobro F, González C, Varas J, et al. Low-Cost Simulation Training Program for Endoscopic Sinus Surgery: Optimizing the Basic Skills Level. Clin Surg. 2021; 6: 3083..