OBJECTIVE: To determine the effectiveness of simulator training on basic arthroscopic skills utilizing a novel, low-cost arthroscopic triangulation training system.
METHODS: A randomized controlled
trial of subjects without prior arthroscopy training was conducted, with participants randomized to receive either a fixed protocol of simulation training on a triangulation simulation model (30 minutes of training for 4 consecutive days), or no training. On Days 1 and 5, all participants were evaluated on 3 simulated arthroscopic tasks by an independent observer. Variables analyzed included how many times portals were changed, the time it took to complete the tasks, and the task completion rate.
METHODS: Arthrex Inc., Naples, FL.
METHODS: Thirty-six participants (92% male, average 28 ± 5 years) with no prior arthroscopy training were randomized into 2 groups, with 17 in the training group (T) and 19 in the no-training group (NT).
RESULTS: On Day 1, there was no difference in rate of task completion between the
T group and NT groups (41% versus 53%, p = 0.52). On Day 5, significantly more participants in the
T group completed all tasks compared to the NT group (100% versus 63%, p = 0.008). Participants in the
T group had significantly improved task completion times on Day 5 versus Day 1 (p < 0.05). Participants in the NT group had a significantly improved task completion time for Task 1 on Day 5 versus Day 1 (p = 0.037); no differences were found for Tasks 2 or 3. On Day 5, participants in the
T group required significantly fewer portal changes compared to the NT group (2.35 ± 2.29 versus 6.95 ± 8.55, p = 0.039).
CONCLUSIONS: Simulation training on a simple, low-cost arthroscopic triangulation training system resulted in an overall improvement in arthroscopic probing and triangulation skills within 1 week of training, with significantly decreased task completion times and increased efficiency of movement.