Advancing Surgical Education: Insights from the 2023-2024 Wisely Surgical Association Annual Surgical Conference at PCOM
February 2025 | Vol. 69, No. 1
Written by Shrijal Desai, PCOM OMS-II
The 2023-2024 Wisely Surgical Association Annual Surgical Conference, hosted at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM), represents a pivotal event in the realm of medical education, particularly in surgical training. This conference aims to enhance the educational experiences of medical students, residents, and practicing surgeons by providing hands-on training in various surgical techniques and simulations. The integration of advanced simulation technologies and practical workshops is crucial for developing surgical skills, which are essential for effective patient care and safety in the operating room.
One of the key components of the conference is the laparoscopic training module, which emphasizes the importance of familiarizing participants with the structure and utility of laparoscopic instruments. The ability to manipulate these tools effectively is fundamental for performing basic tasks in a controlled training environment, often referred to as the laparoscopic box. Studies have shown that structured training in laparoscopic techniques significantly enhances the confidence and competence of medical students during their surgical clerkships, thereby improving their overall educational experience.1,2 The "Fundamentals in Laparoscopic Surgery" (FLS) program, developed by the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Surgery, serves as a benchmark for such training, highlighting the necessity of a standardized approach to laparoscopic education.3
In addition to laparoscopic skills, the conference also addresses the critical aspects of scrubbing and gowning, which are vital for maintaining sterility in surgical settings. Understanding the significance of sterility and recognizing the environments where it is required are essential skills for any aspiring surgeon. Properly donning surgical gowns and gloves is not merely a procedural formality; it is a fundamental practice that safeguards both the patient and the surgical team from potential infections.4 The emphasis on these practices during the conference aligns with the broader goals of surgical education, which prioritize patient safety and procedural integrity.
The trauma simulation sessions, particularly those focusing on cricothyrotomy and chest tube insertion, are designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the indications and contraindications for these critical procedures. Mastering the basic steps of performing a chest tube thoracostomy is essential for managing patients with respiratory distress or pneumothorax. Research indicates that simulation-based training in trauma procedures significantly improves the performance of medical trainees, allowing them to gain practical experience in high-stakes scenarios without jeopardizing patient safety.5 This hands-on approach is vital for fostering the skills necessary to respond effectively in emergency situations.
Moreover, the robotic simulator training segment of the conference introduces participants to the indications for using robotic technology in surgery. Familiarity with the structure and utility of robotic instruments is increasingly important as minimally invasive surgical techniques gain prominence in modern surgical practice. The integration of robotic systems into surgical training not only enhances the precision of surgical procedures but also improves patient outcomes.6 As robotic surgery continues to evolve, it is imperative that medical education keeps pace with these advancements, ensuring that future surgeons are well-equipped to utilize these technologies effectively.
Skin grafting is another critical area covered during the conference, where participants learn to recognize instances where skin grafting is utilized and the techniques involved in performing the procedure. This skill is particularly relevant in trauma and reconstructive surgery, where timely and effective skin grafting can significantly impact patient recovery and outcomes. The conference provides a platform for participants to engage in practical demonstrations and simulations, reinforcing their understanding of the principles and techniques involved in skin grafting.7
The casting and splinting workshops are designed to familiarize participants with the materials required for basic casting and splinting, as well as the indications and contraindications for each. Understanding the differences between casts and splints is crucial for providing appropriate care to patients with musculoskeletal injuries. The ability to apply these techniques correctly can greatly enhance patient comfort and recovery.8 The conference's focus on these foundational skills underscores the importance of comprehensive training in orthopedic procedures.
In addition to the practical skills training, the conference also includes sessions on reading X-rays and utilizing ultrasound in orthopedic settings. Learning the proper views of X-rays and the order of events for reading them is essential for medical students, as these skills are frequently tested in clinical practice. Proficiency in interpreting imaging studies is a critical competency for any physician, particularly in surgical specialties.9 Similarly, understanding the principles of using ultrasound in an orthopedic context enhances diagnostic capabilities and improves patient management strategies.
The conference also addresses the importance of anesthesia and emergency medicine simulations, including running a code and practicing central line placement. Familiarity with the procedures involved in managing a patient coding in a hospital setting is vital for all healthcare providers, as effective teamwork and communication can significantly influence patient outcomes during critical situations.10 The emphasis on simulation training in these areas reflects a growing recognition of the need for comprehensive education that encompasses all aspects of surgical and emergency care.
As the conference draws to a close, participants are encouraged to reflect on their learning experiences and consider how they will apply these skills in their future medical careers. The upcoming 2024-2025 Wisely Surgical Association Annual Surgical Conference, scheduled for April 5th, 2025, promises to build on the successes of this year's event, continuing to advance surgical education and training for the next generation of healthcare professionals. The ongoing commitment to enhancing surgical skills through innovative training methods is essential for ensuring that medical students and residents are well-prepared to meet the challenges of modern medicine.
In conclusion, the 2023-2024 Wisely Surgical Association Annual Surgical Conference at PCOM serves as a vital platform for advancing surgical education. Through a comprehensive curriculum that includes laparoscopic training, trauma simulations, robotic surgery, and essential procedural skills, the conference equips participants with the knowledge and competencies necessary for successful surgical practice. The integration of simulation-based training and hands-on workshops reflects a commitment to fostering a new generation of skilled surgeons who are prepared to deliver high-quality patient care in an increasingly complex medical landscape.
References:
1. Nácul, M., Cavazzola, L., & Melo, M. (2015). Current status of residency training in laparoscopic surgery in Brazil: a critical review. Abcd Arquivos Brasileiros De Cirurgia Digestiva (São Paulo), 28(1), 81-85. https://doi.org/10.1590/s0102-67202015000100020
2. Collingwood, J., Arnold, C., Crews, B., Faunce, A., Ethridge, B., Barefield, N., … & Roach, S. (2023). Preparing future surgeons: an evaluation of academic surgeons' views on laparoscopic simulation training for medical students. Cureus. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.37924
3. Subhas, G. and Mittal, V. (2011). minimally invasive training during surgical residency. The American Surgeon, 77(7), 902-906. https://doi.org/10.1177/000313481107700728
4. Shrestha, B. (2024). Comparative study of preoperative prophylactic antibiotic versus no antibiotic in patients undergoing elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Birat Journal of Health Sciences, 9(1), 46-50. https://doi.org/10.62065/bjhs546
5. Chen, P. (2024). Laparoscopic training workshop to assess medical students’ skill acquisition and interest in surgical careers. BMC Medical Education, 24(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-024-05708-4
6. Redondo, M., Christian, D., Gowd, A., Cabarcas, B., Cvetanovich, G., Bach, B., … & Frank, R. (2020). The effect of triangulation simulator training on arthroscopy skills: a prospective randomized controlled trial. Arthroscopy Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, 2(2), e59-e70. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.asmr.2019.10.010
7. Talbot, C., Holt, E., Gooding, B., Tennent, T., & Foden, P. (2015). The shoulder objective practical assessment tool: evaluation of a new tool assessing residents learning in diagnostic shoulder arthroscopy. Arthroscopy the Journal of Arthroscopic and Related Surgery, 31(8), 1441-1449. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.arthro.2015.03.003
8. Okrainec, A., Soper, N., Swanstrom, L., & Fried, G. (2010). Trends and results of the first 5 years of fundamentals of laparoscopic surgery (fls) certification testing. Surgical Endoscopy, 25(4), 1192-1198. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00464-010-1343-0
9. Gomoll, A., O’Toole, R., Czarnecki, J., & Warner, J. (2007). Surgical experience correlates with performance on a virtual reality simulator for shoulder arthroscopy. The American Journal of Sports Medicine, 35(6), 883-888. https://doi.org/10.1177/0363546506296521
10. Ferguson, J., Middleton, R., Alvand, A., & Rees, J. (2015). Newly acquired arthroscopic skills: are they transferable during simulator training of other joints? Knee Surgery Sports Traumatology Arthroscopy, 25(2), 608-615. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00167-015-3766-6 |
