Covid Recovery Laparoscopic Simulation Program for Gynaecological Registrars- Trainee Perceptions of Regional Model

Study Objective The acquisition of gynaecological operating skills can be challenging for trainees given the conflicting demands of clinical work. Alternative models of surgical skill training such as laparoscopic simulation is, therefore, required. This study demonstrates the development of a regional gynaecological surgery laparoscopic simulation program and trainee perceptions of such an approach. Design An intervention-based cohort study. Setting A regional model based in West Midlands training region. Patients/Participants Responses from sixty-four trainees in the training region who participated in this regional program were included. Intervention A three-stream curriculum was developed to deliver key training outcomes as required by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) core curriculum as a component of a Covid Recovery Program. Courses were held in seven teaching hospitals. Courses consisted of both theory and practical teaching. Measurements A structured feedback tool was used to collect trainee perceptions of the programme. Trainee satisfaction was measured on the Likert scale of 1-3. A qualitative thematic analysis was conducted with rank-order analysis of coded free-text responses. Main Results Overall, the majority of trainees 92% (n=58/64) were very satisfied with the course. Rank-order analysis demonstrated hands-on-practice to be the key perceived benefit of laparoscopic simulation amongst basic and intermediate trainees whilst feedback on procedural skills was felt most useful amongst advanced trainees. Conclusion A regional approach to laparoscopic simulation training is both achievable and acceptable. Trainee perceptions of usefulness are altered by seniority and experience. This should be accounted for in the development of laparoscopic simulation programmes.