What is the role of surgical simulation on operative opportunity for the trainee ENT surgeon?

Abstract

AbstractObjectiveThis study sought to assess the impact of simulation training in influencing trainees’ initial surgical participation as perceived by experienced surgeon trainers.MethodsTwenty ENT surgeons assessed how much of a given procedure they would expect to allow a trainee to perform for their first time. Responses were provided for trainees who had undergone a relevant simulation course and those who had not, and scored according to the eLogbook levels of involvement in surgery. This was completed for simulated procedures with validated models, across four grades of junior doctors.ResultsA total of 1120 judgements on the trainees’ intended level of involvement were made. The median involvement score was higher in the simulation group versus the non-simulation group (Mann–Whitney U, p = 0.0001), corresponding to a translation in surgical opportunity from a primarily assisting role to an active role.ConclusionTrainer perception of a relevant ENT simulation course appears to positively impact on the initial surgical opportunities afforded to the trainee.