%0 Journal Article
%T An update on simulation training in rhinology: a systematic review of evidence.
%A Brennan LJ
%A Balakumar R
%A Waite S
%A Bennett WO
%J J Laryngol Otol
%V 0
%N 0
%D 2024 Apr 11
%M 38602176
%F 2.187
%R 10.1017/S0022215124000495
%X BACKGROUND: Rhinological procedures demand a high degree of technical expertise and anatomical knowledge. Because of limited surgical opportunities, ethical considerations and the complexity of these procedures, simulation-based training has become increasingly important. This review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of simulation models used in rhinology training.
METHODS: Searches were conducted on PubMed, Embase, Cochrane and Google Scholar for studies conducted between July 2012 and July 2022. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis ('PRISMA') protocol defined a final list of articles. Each validated study was assigned a level of evidence and a level of recommendation based on the Oxford Centre of Evidence-Based Medicine classification.
RESULTS: Following exclusions, 42 articles were identified which encompassed six types of simulation models and 26 studies evaluated validity. The rhinological skills assessed included endoscopic sinus surgery (n = 28), skull base/cerebrospinal fluid leak repair (n = 14), management of epistaxis and/or sphenopalatine artery ligation (n = 8), and septoplasty and septorhinoplasty (n = 6). All studies reported the beneficial impact of their simulation models on trainee development.
CONCLUSIONS: Simulation training in rhinology is a valuable adjunct to traditional surgical education. Although evidence is of moderate quality, the findings highlight the importance of simulation-based training in rhinology training.