Background: Multiple
studies have shown the effectiveness of laparoscopic simulators in training
residents technical skills needed to gain proficiency in the operating room.
Unfortunately, many programs struggle to incorporate this routinely in their
curriculum.
Methods: IRB
approval was obtained. A survey was sent to different residency programs to
assess other implemented laparoscopic curriculums. UF OB/GYN residents were
enrolled in the curriculum (N=11), which included a pre/post-curriculum survey
and baseline FLS scores. A cost-effective, portable laparoscopic trainer was
designed and given to each resident. They were required to record 10-minute
videos weekly for evaluation and individual feedback were given through text
message.
Results: This
showed that on average, there was a slight improvement in perceived proficiency
by the residents after implementation of the curriculum. There is improvement
in average time to completion of all three tasks, but it was not statistically
significant. Initially, 3 out of 11 residents could perform intracorporeal
knot-tying; all 11 residents could complete this task after the curriculum
(p=0.0019). Secondary outcomes showed that individual practice outside of
the mandatory practice is positively correlated with improvement in 2 out of 3
tasks.
Discussions: This is a good stepping
stone to help our program develop a laparoscopic curriculum especially with the
new ABOG requirement of passing the FLS exam prior to taking the written board
exam. Mandatory deliberate practice ensured that residents practiced
laparoscopic skills weekly. This was made even more accessible by giving
residents a home laparoscopic trainer.
Topics: CREOG & APGO Annual Meeting, 2019, Student, Resident, Faculty, Clerkship Director, Residency Director, Practice-Based Learning & Improvement, GME, Simulation, Minimally Invasive Surgery,
Pamela Palma,
MD, University
of Florida, Sacred Heart Hospital, Pensacola; Julie DeCesare, MD; Eddie
Tu, PhD
