SP 4.13 Open Inguinal Hernia Repair Model in Simulation: An Evaluation of the Educational Benefits for General Surgery Trainees
James McAllister, Anshika Tyagi, Rory Clarke, Evripidis Tokidis, Adam Peckham-CooperAbstract
Aims
Uncomplicated open inguinal hernia repair is a core curriculum operation which general surgical ST3+ residents are expected to be competent in performing to PBA level 3, but often lack exposure. For new ST3 residents, simulation-based ‘bootcamps’ provide an environment whereby trainees can develop and enhance these practical/operative skills. A new simple open hernia repair model skills station was therefore devised and delivered as part of the Yorkshire and East Midlands Surgical Bootcamp.
Methods
32 participants took part in the hernia repair simulation station delivered as part of the wider bootcamp programme. Confidence in performing open inguinal hernia repair was assessed using a pre/post-session 4-point Likert questionnaire. Seven domains were covered (anatomical identification, dissection, mesh placement, safe spermatic cord handling, avoidance of neurovascular injury, assisting, and wound management). Changes in confidence across categories was analysed both descriptively and quantitatively using Wilcoxon signed-rank tests.
Results
12/32 (37.5%) participants completed both pre/post-confidence assessments for the skill session. Responses demonstrated a marked upward shift in confidence distributions across all assessed hernia-related skills. Paired Wilcoxon signed-rank testing between pre/post-session results demonstrated statistically significant improvements across all hernia simulation domains (p<0.05).
Conclusion
A novel simulation-based open inguinal hernia repair skill station, using a high-fidelity hernia model and one-to-one supported teaching significantly improved general surgical resident confidence across all measured domains. Clinical/Operative skill acquisition remains challenging particularly for early stage career surgeons making simulation alternative a vital training adjunct.