International Journal of Healthcare Simulation

Background and aim:

Simulation is integral to the recovery of surgical training in the UK after the COVID pandemic. Physical constraints on traditional simulation training can affect access. We sought to understand if cardiac and thoracic simulation training remotely is feasible and effective. It has been demonstrated in other settings and has potential in the surgical setting [1].

Methods:

We completed simulation training sessions using the Teams and Zoom online platforms with single one on one and group simulation training sessions covering Video-assisted-thoracoscopic-surgery wedge resections and lobectomy as well as coronary anastomosis.

Results:

We had 15 participants in the thoracic arm and 5 participants over 4 sessions in the cardiac arm. All participants found the remote simulation training useful and improved their confidence in surgical skill. We did not have any technical connection difficulties during sessions but challenges for simulation in this format included standardizing the equipment and setup pre-sessions. Participants found in 89% of cases that feedback on performance was superior to face to face simulation and/or surgical theatre experience.

Conclusion:

Remote simulation is feasible and effective in cardiothoracic surgery in our pilot study. Further studies are needed to better clarify who this resource should be targeted at included experience of trainees and level of competence.

Ethics statement:

Authors confirm that all relevant ethical standards for research conduct and dissemination have been met. The submitting author confirms that relevant ethical approval was granted, if applicable.