Training of basic surgical procedural skills in medical students using a simulation model (EPROBA)

Abstract

Background: Simulation models provide controlled environments for the practice and tutor feedback. Faced with a first experience, our group implemented a simplified and reproducible model for the training of basic surgical skills.

Aim: Communicate the results of a training workshop based on simulation for the basic surgical skills training in medical students.

Materials and Method: Quasi-experimental study, before and after, 124 fourth year medical students were trained with “EPROBA” methodology, with prior informed consent. Through the instrument “The Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills” (OSATS) the technique of suture before and after the intervention was evaluated. The perception of the students was evaluated through a validated survey. For statistical analysis SPSS24® was used and the Mann Whitney test was used for nonparametric variables, it was considered significant p < 0.05.

Results: The group shows a significant average progress in its procedural performance. In the OSATS Checklist they show a progress from 4.1 points to 8.9 after the intervention (p < 0.001). In the OSATS Global Scale they show a baseline score of 13.0 points, rising to 28.0 points (p < 0.001). The intervention was well perceived, obtaining a total average score of 65.4 points of 68 maximums.

Conclusion: In our experience, a simplified model proved to be effective for training in simple procedural skills such as sutures. Multiple instances of practice must be granted by the Faculties of Medicine for the retention and improvement of these skills.