A program of microsurgical training for young medical students: Are younger students better?

Abstract

In the European countries there is a lack of young doctors. This shortage limits the possibilities for recruiting skilled surgeons for the microsurgical disciplines. Complicating the situation is the fact that most students do not decide on their area of specialization until the late clinical semesters. The authors present a new program of microsurgical training that dispenses completely with animal training. In addition, a scoring system is presented that enables instructors to compare the microsurgical skills of different students for the purpose of further statistical analysis. This scoring system could be used for the evaluation of potential microsurgical candidates as well as for other purposes, e.g. scientific projects. A total of 36 students with an average age of 24.2 were trained, with good-to-excellent results. Microsurgical training of young students can be recommended. A point worth exploring in the future is whether there are different learning curves for different age groups.

Multiuse of Disposable Microsurgical Instruments as a Cost-Efficient Alternative for Training and Research

“…2,7,8 Recently introduced single-use microsurgery instruments may, therefore, if sufficiently reusable and of high quality, provide a cost-efficient solution to this problem.…”

“…8,9 Although the principle of single-use instruments for clinical purposes is ecologically questionable, their repeatable use combined with in vitro training models provides a widely available and cost-efficient access to young trainees.…”

Entrenamiento microquirúrgico básico para realizar un modelo animal de alotrasplante compuesto vascularizado

“…Algunos de estos aspectos son la necesidad de tiempo, paciencia, motivación, tolerancia a la frustración y recursos entre otros 4,13,[27][28][29][30][31] . Si bien existen algunas publicaciones al respecto, aún no se ha desarrollado un currículo válido de entrenamiento para los especialistas que necesitan usar técnicas microquirúrgicas en su práctica diaria 29,[32][33][34][35][36] . Entre los diferentes esquemas de entrenamiento propuestos, está la simple exposición directa a procedimientos microquirúrgicos, sin embargo, esta opción, además de ser riesgosa para los pacientes, se reserva sólo a centros con alto volumen microquirúrgico.…”

Hands-on Simulation versus Traditional Video-learning in Teaching Microsurgery Technique

“…Various training methods have been previously reported. 1–3) In Japan, repetitive suturing of gauze fibers with 10-0 nylon using a desk-type microscope is a common microsurgery training method used to learn the precise movements required for microvascular anastomosis. 4) However, holding the 10-0 nylon and needle is too difficult for novices in first practice.…”