Purpose: To determine if a standardized open suturing curriculum improves placement of suture in the second layer of a two layered fascial model
Background: Simulation in medical education has become more important due to societal expectations and graduate medical education limitations. However, there is little data investigating standardized curricula and simulation in open surgical skills.
Methods: All third year medical students participated in this study while on the obstetrics and gynecology rotation. 69 students participated in the study and received 60 minutes of standardized suturing technique education using a model mimicking the two layers of fascia encountered during a cesarean section. The number of stitches placed in the second layer of the model was assessed prior to the first education session and again one week following completion of the curricula.
Results: 61 students (88%) missed at least 1 stitch in the second layer of the model at time of pretest. At time of posttest, 55 (80%) students demonstrated improvement in the number of stitches in the second layer of the model with 33 (48%) missing 0 stitches. 10 students (6.9%) demonstrated worsened placement, and 3 (4.3%) students demonstrated no change. The mean number of stitches missed in the second layer pre and posttest respectively was 8.1 and 2.7 with students missing on average 8.7 fewer stitches in the second layer following completion of the curriculum.
Discussions: Participation in a standardized opening suturing curriculum improved suture placement in the second layer of a two layered fascial model. Further analysis regarding accuracy of suture placement is ongoing.
Topics: CREOG & APGO Annual Meeting, 2022, Resident, Faculty, Clerkship Director, Osteopathic Faculty, Residency Director, Patient Care, GME, Assessment, Simulation, General Ob-Gyn,
Sarah White, MD, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Brian C. Brost, MD; Talla Widelock, MD; Samantha Shirk, DO; Matthew Zuber, MD
