Background: Based on prior research, laparoscopic box-trainers
improve proficiency on surgical skills, however voluntary simulation time by
residents is traditionally low. We propose that a buddy system approach to
simulation will increase laparoscopic training time, and further improve
skills.
Methods: Thirty-two residents at a single obstetric and
gynecology residency program were consented for the study. Each
buddy pair was composed of a junior and senior resident. During the first half
of the 20-week study, 12 residents were randomly assigned a buddy while 20
remained solo. During the second half, solo-trainers were assigned
buddies and conversely buddies were made solo. Residents recorded check-in and -out
times electronically. (Assignments were provided via email at the beginning and
mid-way points; no other contact was made.) At the conclusion of the study
period a survey link was distributed.
Results: Six of the 32 residents (18.8%) attended simulation in
the 20-weeks, with an average time of 2 hours 14 minutes. In the solo-trainer
group, 1 resident checked in 3 times and 2 residents once. In the buddy group,
1 pair checked in together and 1 person checked in alone. Fifteen
residents (46.9%) completed the survey. Thirteen (86.7%) agreed they
accurately reported times; 1 was neutral and 1 never attended. All communicated
with their buddy monthly or less frequently, while 10 of them never
communicated.
Discussions: Residents’ laparoscopic simulation time was dismal at our
program in this study. Dedicated mandatory simulation time may increase
participation.
Topics: CREOG & APGO Annual Meeting, 2019, Faculty, Residency Director, Medical Knowledge, CME, Independent Study, Minimally Invasive Surgery,
Kayvahn Steck-Bayat,
MD, University
of Arizona College of Medicine - Phoenix; Olga Borodulin, MD; Jamal
Mourad, DO;
Nichole Mahnert,
MD
