Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

5-16-2025

Abstract

Objective: As the integrated cardiothoracic (I6) residency reaches maturity, it is important to identify core mid-level surgical skills that are valued within this framework in order to target these skills for development and improve competency and confidence. We aim to understand how I6 skill needs diverge from those traditionally emphasized in general surgery training, enabling a tailored approach to simulation-based education that aligns with evolving educational models. Methods: Surveys were distributed to general surgery (GS) and cardiothoracic (CT) faculty and residents at a single academic center. Respondents reported on current simulation perceptions and ranked open mid-level resident surgical skills that would benefit from improved simulation experiences during training on a 0-10 scale. Results: Of 29 respondents, 8 were GS residents, 8 GS faculty, 7 CT residents, and 6 CT faculty. Faculty had the most experience with high-fidelity models (ie cadavers), while residents primarily used low-fidelity models (ie laparoscopic trainers). “Inability to find time” was the main limitation of simulation use (19/29, 66% of all respondents; 11/15, 73% of residents). Top-rated skills among GS participants were large vessel anastomosis, sewn/stapled bowel anastomosis, and suturing/knot-tying in a cavity (Table). Top-rated CT skills were small vessel anastomosis, suturing/knot-tying in a cavity, ECMO cannulation, and aortic/mitral valve placement. Conclusions: Survey results highlight overlapping and divergent skill priorities between GS and CT. Areas of concordance, such as suturing in challenging anatomical locations, present opportunities for unified simulation curricula, while specialty-specific needs emphasize the importance of tailored training pathways.

Comments

Michigan Chapter of the American College of Surgeons 71st Annual Meeting, May 14-16, 2025, Bellaire, MI

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