Simulation in surgical education: resident’s point of view

Abstract

Changes in healthcare system, such as implementation of working hours’ restrictions in residency programs, and ethical and patient’s security regulations, have modified the methods and available time for trainee’s education. These restrictions, have motivated the creation of novel teaching tools for a complete and successful education. Currently, simulation is one of the most implemented teaching methods globally. Fortunately, different simulation models have been developed: Virtual simulation, simulation in living animals, human and animal cadavers, box-training simulation, and 3D printed artificial models, among others. Nevertheless, each of these simulation models have their own advantages and disadvantages. Surgical skills development, improvements of perioperative results, decrease in hospital stay, and reduced costs are some advantages associated with simulation. Lack of homogeneous simulation programs, and costs of acquisition and maintenance of the equipment are drawbacks of surgical simulation. Surgical simulation is particularly attractive because it allows trainees to develop surgical skills in a “real-life”, controlled, and safe scenario. This avoids practicing in a clinical environment, which potentially increases patient’s safety, reduces perioperative complications, and decreases costs. In the last decades, surgical simulation has been gaining popularity in most residency programs worldwide, with a protected time for this activity. As a resident, I think that simulation is a great and useful teaching tool that should be part of all surgical residency curriculums.