Abstract
Introduction
We developed a low cost, easily replicable model that can be used to learn dural tear techniques without posing a risk to patients, therefore, increase patient safety. The aim of this is to produce trainees that are more confident in dural tear closure, reducing the chance of post-operative CSF leak.
Method
Consultants, trainees and medical students completed a training exercise supervised by a consultant spinal surgeon. After they had completed the exercise satisfactorily, participants scored from ‘very much improved’ to ‘very much deterioration’ on a self-assessment 7-point likert scale. Qualitative questions were also asked to assess the accuracy of the model.
Results
60% stated that their skills were ‘a little improved’, and 20% were ‘very much improved’. The consultants were evenly split, with 50% stating that there was ‘no change’. However, 50% of consultants and all the trainees found skills ‘a little improved’. Overall, the model was agreed to be an accurate representation of a dural tear and that it would be useful in clinical training.
Conclusions
show that improving dural tear closure training can be achieved with our model. It is low cost, and manufacturable with equipment that clinical professionals have on hand.
Simulation-based clinical assessment: Redesigning a signature assessment into a teaching strategy