A New Approach to Microsurgical Medical Education: Mobile Phone Repairs

Abstract

Background: Technology has been increasingly used as a teaching tool in medical education, and simulation training is at the forefront of that shift in teaching methods. This project proposes an innovative tool for training students in microsurgery. Through fixing their cell phones under the guidance of a supervisor, students got a chance to improve their technique in microscope use. Furthermore, the procedure allowed for students to discuss insecurities surrounding the performance of microsurgery. Materials and Methods: Eight students from the Federal University of São Paulo were involved in the project and were selected through a phone screening process. Those students brought in their own faulty cell phones which were the main materials used. Other materials included pieces that needed replacing in the phones and the tools needed to open, close and handle the apparatus generally. Results: 87.5% of the students achieved the expected result with a successful procedure and 25% of students had technical problems during the procedure. 75% of students, however, had no major technical problems during the procedure. Two of the eight students who participated in this project had trouble with the cell phones one month after the procedure. The remaining had fully functional devices. Conclusion: The majority of students successfully completed the cell phone repairs. Overall, there was a high level of acceptance of the project by students as a successful learning tool which increased both their abilities and self-confidence. Students overall left satisfied with the activity and said they would recommend it to others.