J. W. Menard1, F. Shariff1, W. Goering1, A. Deladisma1, R. Damewood2, D. S. Lind1 1University Of Florida-Jacksonville,General Surgery,Jacksonville, FL, USA 2Wellspan Health York Hospital,General Surgery,York, PA, USA
Introduction: While modular curricula exists to teach/assess the fundamentals of laparoscopic (FLS) and endoscopic (FES) surgery, no similar curriculum exists for the fundamental skills of open surgery (FSS). Therefore, we describe our efforts to create, validate and distribute a competency-based curriculum to teach/assess the basics skills of open surgery.
Methods: Using a modified Delphi approach, we created a 15-point binary checklist for the steps required to open and close an abdomen. Construct validity was then determined by videotaped assessment of novice and experts performing a laparotomy on a simulated model (Simulab Corporation, Seattle, WA). We then developed a comprehensive, competency-based curriculum regarding the knowledge/skills required for open surgery. Finally, to facilitate distribution, we employed an innovative, web-based platform (ApprenNet) to provide learners with on-line content, video-based evaluation and expert feedback (see Figure 1).
Results: Using a 15-point binary checklist, experts performed significantly better than novices on the simulated abdomen (0.88 vs. 0.27; p=0.06). The FSS curriculum has been successfully implemented in 7 general surgery residency programs at the PGY1/2 level (N=110). For distant learning, we effectively employed an app-based, educational platform (ApprenNet). Learners used the app to record/submit their simulated laparotomy using their personal smart-devices.
Conclusion: We have successfully created, validated and distributed a competency-based curriculum to teach/assess the fundamental skills of open surgery (FSS). Similar to FLS/FES, general surgery training programs should require all residents to successfully complete the FSS curriculum.
