Simulation in pediatric minimally invasive surgery: adaptation of a simple series of exercises as part of the process of an initial implementation of a resident training program

Abstract

Introduction: the simulation in minimally invasive surgery is fundamental for surgeon in training to learning and training skills, especially in pediatrics, due to the particularities, reduced spaces, specific and rare procedures. The aim of this study was to propose an adapted series of exercises and to simply evaluate the performance of pediatric surgery residents in the initial implementation of a training program. Method: seven basic skills exercises in video surgery, based on series and programs already published and using low-cost materials, were performed by six residents in 2 moments, with an interval of 15 days and evaluated by simple instrument. Results: there was no difficulty with models. Considering the individual averages of the seven exercises together in the two moments, five of the six residents increased the score in the second moment. The average score per exercise increased in five of the seven tasks. Despite the small number of participants and repetition, it has already been possible to observe a trend of better performance with decreased time of all residents after a single repetition. All considered the exercises capable of training essential skills of the specialty, with simple and inexpensive materials. Conclusion: given the challenges of simulated training in pediatric video surgery, it is known the benefit of a continuous program, with exercises that can simulate real situations. A pre-established schedule, more participants and repetitions, supervision of experienced surgeons and validated instruments are fundamental to evaluate surgeons in training and show statistical benefits of simulated exercises in this series.