Fellow perceptions of training using computer-based endoscopy simulators

BackgroundIntegrating procedural training by using computer-based endoscopic simulators (CBES) into gastroenterology fellowships may facilitate technical skill development, while posing no additional risk to patients.ObjectiveThe aim of our study was to survey pediatric gastroenterology fellows about their experiences with and perceptions of CBES as compared with actual procedures, prior to and after exposure to both types of endoscopic learning.Design and SettingAll first-year trainees at Children's Hospital Boston (2003-2008) were invited to complete a written, pretraining questionnaire and then perform at least 10 each of CBES endoscopies and colonoscopies prior to performing actual procedures. Fellows completed a written, posttraining questionnaire after 4 months.Main Outcome MeasurementsSurvey responses.ResultsAll 25 first-year fellows (12 male, median age 30 years) over the 5-year period participated. Four months into their fellowships, fellows reported simulation to be helpful in increasing procedural skill and confidence. The number of sessions on the simulator was associated with reported increased colonoscopic skill and confidence (P = .032 and P = .007, respectively). All fellows reported it difficult to incorporate CBES into their work schedules. Only 28% of fellows reported performing 20 total CBES procedures, with most simulation sessions reportedly lasting less than 30 minutes. All participants rated faculty instruction with CBES as very helpful.LimitationsThis was a single-site study of pediatric trainees and may be limited in generalizability.ConclusionA few short sessions with CBES may be perceived as useful for endoscopic skill acquisition by pediatric gastroenterology trainees. Further exploration into how to assimilate CBES into busy gastroenterology training programs may be warranted.