Comprehensive simulation-enhanced training curriculum for an advanced procedure

This study addresses the lack of a comprehensive simulation-enhanced training (SET) curriculum for advanced minimally invasive procedures by developing and validating such a program. A prospective single-blinded, randomized controlled trial was conducted at a university, involving 20 intermediate-level surgery residents who were assigned to either conventional training or the SET curriculum. The primary outcome focused on psychomotor skills demonstrated in a live porcine model, while secondary outcomes assessed knowledge and nontechnical skills in simulated scenarios.

Results indicated that the SET curriculum significantly improved psychomotor skills and nontechnical skills compared to conventional training, while knowledge levels remained comparable between the groups. Furthermore, when comparing the SET group to chief residents, the SET group showed similar psychomotor skills but inferior knowledge, though they excelled in nontechnical skills. Overall, the SET curriculum led to better training outcomes, suggesting its potential to standardize and enhance proficiency in advanced minimally invasive procedures before residents engage in patient care.