SRS20 - Is there a role for ‘live tissue training’ to educate UK surgeons in the management of major haemorrhage?

Abstract Simulation training involving a live anaesthetised animal is used worldwide to educate surgeons in learning the technical skills associated with trauma surgery and the management of major haemorrhage. So-called ‘live tissue training’ (LTT) is rarely conducted in the UK, with the false assumption that it is forbidden by legislation. Undoubtedly, it is an ethically contentious topic. The debate centres around balancing surgeons’ requirements for high-quality training against the rights of animals. The RCS England council have previously deliberated on this issue, concluding they were unsupportive of LTT, largely due to the availability of alternative simulators. However, LTT remains highly desirable, particularly due to the perceived higher-fidelity of animals in comparison to the preferred alternative of fresh frozen cadavers. There is a requirement for many surgeons to be appropriately trained in the management of trauma, and acquiring relevant clinical experience is challenging. Military medical personnel conduct LTT in a deployed setting, with surgeons employed by certain NATO nations regularly using LTT to acquire and maintain their skills. UK surgeons may choose to travel overseas, for example, to participate in LTT as part of the international Definitive Surgical Trauma Care (DSTC) course. This presentation draws on empirical findings from doctoral research exploring the educational use of LTT, alongside international literature, to consider whether there is a role for live animal simulation in the management of major haemorrhage in trauma. Should live animal simulation be completed replaced, limited to those working within the military, or perhaps an opportunity afforded to all UK surgeons?