Simulation Enhances Resident Preparedness Using Skin Cell Suspension Autograft

Objective: Surgical simulation has been shown to improve efficiency, performance, and time to mastery for complicated procedures, but simulation training is not always considered when introducing new devices or products. As part of a performance improvement project, we sought to design and evaluate simulation training for the skin cell suspension autograft (SCSA) with surgery residents during their Burn rotation. Methods: Residents were asked to read instructional materials and watch training videos before coming into the simulation lab for the training session supervised by a Burn surgeon. A qualitative survey was designed and administered after completion of the rotation. Results: Twelve residents have completed the training thus far. Their feedback from the training session was rated on a five-point Likert scale and indicated that the simulation activity was an appropriate length (4.6/5.0), was thorough (4.8/5.0), and led to more confidence (4.4/5.0) and less apprehension (4.4/5.0) when performing the procedure on live patients. This was followed by their use of the product in the operating room with complete success. Conclusions: The novel SCSA training shows great promise for improving the confidence and performance of surgical residents. This could allow for a shorter time for residents to become independent in its use, thereby allowing for increased operative efficiency with the opportunity to significantly improve trainee expertise.