Development of a Five-Day Basic Microsurgery Simulation Training Course: A Cost Analysis

Abstract

The widespread use of microsurgery in numerous surgical fields has increased the need for basic microsurgical training outside of the operating room. The traditional start of microsurgical training has been in undertaking a 5-day basic microsurgery course. In an era characterised by financial constraints in academic and healthcare institutions as well as increasing emphasis on patient safety, there has been a shift in microsurgery training to simulation environments. This paper reviews the stepwise framework of microsurgical skill acquisition providing a cost analysis of basic microsurgery courses in order to aid planning and dissemination of microsurgical training worldwide.

Longitudinal Microsurgery Laboratory Training during Hand Surgery Fellowship

“…To investigate the cost of alternative models, previous studies have collected data across many types. 22 Cadaveric models are among the most expensive. 23 A more practical option for institutions without access to an animal laboratory is one of the many other low-cost models that have been described including chicken thighs, earthworms, porcine spleens, turkey wings, human placentas, cryopreserved rat aortas, and synthetic arteries complete with fascia.…”

Developing a Three-Layered Synthetic Microsurgical Simulation Vessel

“…16 The most practical current practice option for the intermediate trainee in terms of purchasing, convenience and cost is ex vivo, e.g., chicken thighs are cheap and more realistic than silastic tubes, but not as practical or hygienic. 1,3,4 To reduce the number of live animals used for microvascular simulation, we must strive to optimize the nonliving options. We know that structural fidelity, or physical resemblance, is over-rated in terms of educational value, 15,17 but making models as realistic as possible does increase learner acceptance and engagement.…”

Anastomosis Lapse Index (ALI): A Validated End Product Assessment Tool for Simulation Microsurgery Training

“…3 In modern times, many microsurgical simulation models and educational interventions have been developed to facilitate assessment and development of proficiency in the bundle of technical skills contained in microsurgery. 3,9,15 The aim is to place trainees in an environment that replicates, as much as possible, experiences to be encountered in the operating room. Therefore, microsurgery training and assessment models can be categorized into higher or lower fidelity according to how close to reality they are able to recreate the training environment.…”