How good is simulation? Unveiling the efficacy of a novel microsurgical training simulator in neurosurgical education
Julius Reiser (Magdeburg), Amir Amini (Magdeburg), Vanessa M. Swiatek (Magdeburg), Firat Taskaya (Magdeburg), Klaus-Peter Stein (Magdeburg), Ali Rashidi (Magdeburg), Ibrahim Erol Sandalcioglu (Magdeburg), Belal Neyazi (Magdeburg)
Recent years in neurosurgical education have seen a proliferation of simulation methods, aimed at tackling the critical challenge posed by a decreasing number of real-case experiences. This situation necessitates an accelerated learning curve for neurosurgical trainees. While the introduction of simulators has been well-received, there remains a significant gap in their systematic evaluation. This study aims to fill this void by conducting a thorough evaluation of the Microsurgical Aneurysm Training Simulator (MATS), a model previously introduced. The primary objective of this study is to systematically evaluate MATS, confirming its validity as a tool in neurosurgical education. By doing so, we aim to provide a benchmark for the effectiveness of simulation-based training in neurosurgery.
MATS was evaluated by two groups. Group A consisted out of 6 medical students with neurosurgical basic knowledge which were selected from a neurosurgical elective. Group B consisted out of 4 residents and 2 attendings with experience in vascular neurosurgery. Three attempts have been undertaken by each participant (S1-3) over a period of one week (Fig. 1). Evaluation of content and face validity was assessed by questionnaires, the objective assessment was performed by OSAACS.
The results demonstrated a high level of face and content validity for MATS. Participants, irrespective of their experience level, showed significant improvement in their microsurgical skills post-training measured by OSAACS (Fig. 2+3). Furthermore, group B rated the face validity 4.3 on the Likert scale and the content validity was rated 4.
The study validates MATS as an effective neurosurgical training tool, emphasizing the need for systematic evaluation of such simulators. However, it acknowledges the limitation of its sample size and calls for further research. Additionally, the study highlights the broader implications for medical simulation, advocating for continuous improvement in simulation-based training to meet the evolving needs of neurosurgical education.
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