Purpose: To determine if an introductory simulation-based laparoscopic skills course for medical students will improve their ability to assist in real-life laparoscopy cases.
Background: Laparoscopic training is essential for surgical residents, however it is becoming common practice for interns to actively participate in laparoscopy. Therefore, there is a need for skills to begin in medical school.
Methods: An introductory course on laparoscopy skills for medical students was designed and held early in the OBGYN clerkship rotation. Simulated trainers were used to demonstrate and receive guided practice from faculty on holding the camera, manipulating the grasper, and peg transfers. Participants included third year students from two institutions. Pre-post data was collected on confidence surveys and performance assessments at the beginning and end of the clerkship. Transfer to real-life skills was determined by a clinical experiences app documenting the degree of involvement in laparoscopic assistance.
Results: Forty-six medical students participated in the study during one academic year. Significant improvement was noted in pre-post mean confidence ratings (3.34, 1.73, 1=high 5=low, p< 0.0001), camera skills (47.64% vs. 85.78%, p< 0.0001), and peg transfers (423.8 vs. 128.9 seconds, p< 0.0001). Degree of involvement in real-life laparoscopy demonstrated significant change compared to the year prior: holding the camera (56.23% vs. 67.87%, p=0.02), holding the grasper (27.15% vs. 34.67%, p=0.046), transferring with the grasper (4.41% vs. 13.04%, p< 0.0001).
Discussions: Introducing medical students to laparoscopic skills through simulation early in the clerkship builds their confidence and enables them to gain more clinical experiences by improving their ability to surgically assist.
Topics: CREOG & APGO Annual Meeting, 2022, Student, Faculty, Clerkship Director, Clerkship Coordinator, Medical Knowledge, Practice-Based Learning & Improvement, UME, Assessment, Simulation,
Veronica Peterkin, MD, Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center; Marie Nakhoul, MD; Rami Tabbarah, MD; Emily Marko, MD
