Modern surgical education now routinely includes simulation-based training (SBT); however, putting effective evidence-based training programs into practice is still challenging. In this narrative overview, we outline where we are today and what lies ahead for SBT within surgery, focusing on technical skills in operating procedures using Kern’s paradigm for curriculum development. While massed training with fixed time intervals or a fixed number of repetitions is still widely used, and simulators are vastly underused, proficiency-based, distributed, and deliberate practice concepts have been found.
SBT should include academic, technical, and non-technical abilities based on pertinent needs evaluations in surgical training curricula. Additionally, for the best training, theoretical principles supported by data should be followed, and the impact of training must be assessed using pertinent results. Surgical SBT has greater, untapped potential that could soon be realized when simulator technology advances, more evidence-based training programs are implemented, and its affordability and effect on patient safety are amply shown.
According to the article published in Journal Medical Teacher, In this blog, I will explore why surgery simulation training is emerging as the future of medical education.
- Enhanced Realism and Immersion:
Surgery simulation training offers an unparalleled level of realism and immersion. Advanced virtual reality (VR) systems allow doctors to interact with lifelike surgical scenarios, replicating the complexities and challenges they may face in an operating room. Doctors can develop crucial motor skills and hand-eye coordination, from manipulating surgical instruments to performing delicate procedures in a controlled and safe environment.
- Risk-Free Learning Environment:
Mistakes in surgery can have severe consequences for patients. However, simulation training provides doctors a risk-free environment to learn and make mistakes without harming anyone. Surgeons can practice complex procedures repeatedly, honing their skills and refining their techniques. This iterative process allows them to gain confidence, improve their decision-making abilities, and identify areas for improvement.
- Customizable Training Programs:
One of the significant advantages of surgery simulation training is the ability to tailor the training programs to meet specific learning objectives. Whether mastering a new technique, familiarizing with the latest surgical tools, or practicing rare and complex procedures, simulation platforms can be customized to address individual training needs. This flexibility enables doctors to learn independently, ensuring a comprehensive and personalized learning experience.
- Objective Performance Assessment:
In traditional surgical training, evaluating a doctor’s performance can be subjective. However, simulation training introduces objective assessment methods. The virtual environment records and analyzes every move and decision the trainee makes, providing detailed feedback on their performance. This data-driven approach enables doctors to identify areas of improvement and track their progress over time. Furthermore, the ability to compare performance metrics with peers and experts fosters healthy competition and encourages continuous professional development.
- Cost and Resource Efficiency:
Surgery simulation training can offer significant cost and resource savings in the long run. Traditional training methods involve arranging cadaveric labs, scheduling operating room time, and coordinating with multiple stakeholders. On the other hand, simulation training eliminates the need for these logistical challenges. Once the initial investment in the simulation infrastructure is made, ongoing costs become minimal. Furthermore, trainees can access the simulation modules remotely, allowing flexible and efficient learning without geographical constraints.
Conclusion:
Surgery simulation training is a required element of contemporary surgical education for technical skills. As simulators develop and offer new training opportunities that a more comprehensive number of trainees may access, their use will only increase. It’s crucial to recognize that simulators alone cannot guarantee skilled doctors.
SBT must be an integral component of a surgical education program, built around known needs and geared towards clearly defined goals, with the impact of training evaluated using instruments with substantial supporting documentation of validity. SBT should be built on the fundamentals of dispersed learning, which promotes intentional practice until mastery is attained. More study is required to prove that SBT has a significant positive impact on patient safety and the healthcare economy and to make surgical SBT essential in the future.
