Evaluation of the ERCP introductory training model and the teaching effect for gastroenterology specialists

Objective To explore the methods of continuing education for advanced endoscope operations by digestive specialists through the establishment and teaching effect evaluation of the ERCP (endoscope retrograde cholangiopancreatography) introductory training mode. Methods A total of 26 trainees from 3 sessions of the ERCP introductory training courses at Peking Union Medical College Hospital from September 2023 to September 2024 were included. The teaching effects of the training courses and its 5 modules were subjectively and objectively evaluated by questionnaires, on - site tests and evaluations by senior ERCP operators. Results Through the ERCP introductory training courses, the trainees′ self-evaluated proficiency in duodenoscope structure (pre-training: 2.4±2.4, post- training: 8.2±1.5, P＜0.001), duodenoscope operation (pre-training: 1.2±2.2, post-training: 6.6±1.8, P＜0.001), papillary cannulation (pre-training: 0.5±1.3, post-training: 5.4±1.8, P＜0.001), intra-bile duct operation (pre-training: 0.2±0.6, post-training: 4.9±2.1, P＜0.001), and identification of intra-bile duct lesions (pre-training: 1.7±2.1, post-training: 6.0±2.0, P＜0.001) was significantly improved. The accuracy rate of the trainees′ theoretical tests and picture recognition before training was 37.2% and then increased up to 62.8% after training. Before training, all trainees were considered by senior operators as not ready to start ERCP training on real patients, while after training, 69.2% (18/26) of the trainees were considered ready to start ERCP training on real patients. Conclusions The multi-module ERCP introductory training courses have a significant effect in terms of laying a foundation for trainees to start ERCP training on patients and of providing a reference for the continuing education mode of advanced endoscope operations for digestive specialists in China.