Utilization of animal experiment-based simulation surgery platforms in the education of endoscopic thyroidectomy: a preliminary study

Abstract

Background

Endoscopic thyroidectomy, due to its superior cosmetic outcomes and improved postoperative quality of life, is increasingly in demand, especially among young female patients. However, performing the procedure while protecting crucial structures such as parathyroid glands and laryngeal nerves remains challenging. Consequently, comprehensive training is crucial for developing experienced endoscopic thyroidectomy surgeons. The main goals are to provide realistic intraoperative environments for surgeons and shorten the learning curve.

Methods

An animal experiment-based simulation platform has been developed in this study. Sixty trainees were equally allocated to either experimental group (surgeons received training using animal experiments before performing actual surgical procedures) or control group (surgeons participated in actual endoscopic thyroidectomy directly). Theoretical and surgical performance scores and trainees’ subjective assessments were compared between the two groups.

Results

There was no significant difference in gender, age, and baseline theoretical scores between the two groups. Theoretical and surgical performance scores in the experiment group were significantly higher than those of the control group, including anatomy scores (P = 0.01), specialty theory scores (P < 0.01), and surgical proficiency ratings (P < 0.01). Trainees’ subjective assessment scores in the experiment group were significantly higher than those in the control group, including satisfaction with the teaching program (P < 0.01), perceived enjoyment of learning (P < 0.01), proactive learning behavior (P < 0.01), self-assessed theoretical knowledge acquisition (P = 0.04), and self-reported improvement in operational skills (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

The utilization of animal experiment-based simulation surgery platform has a positive impact on increasing trainees’ engagement in surgical learning and enhancing the outcomes of training program.