Abstract

Introduction: In recent decades, simulation-based training has become an important component of learning and the practice of surgery. Surgical training is shifting from traditional methods to a more standard realistic approach, using simulation to improve some aspects of training. However, high costs can be a limiting factor. One solution to reduce the cost is using low-cost inanimate bench models. Studies have shown that surgical skills learned by trainees from bench models have resulted in better performance on surgical patients in the operating room. In this study, the introduction of a bench model was evaluated for teaching basic surgical skills to veterinary students in a simulated environment.

Materials and methods: Thirty veterinary students were randomly divided into two groups of 15 trainees: group A (control group) were trained in basic surgical skills on live animals (clinical cases) without any training on bench models; group B (test group) received 30 minutes of training on bench models and then training on live animals. Recorded performances of both groups were evaluated using two checklists: the Global Rating Scale and the Skin Suturing Scale.

Results: The performance scores (combined scores from both checklists) for group B on live animals, after their training on educational bench models, were higher (P = 0.001) than those of group A, who did not have the bench model training.

Discussion: On the basis of this research, learning and training of basic surgical skills is possible by practicing on bench models, and significant progress was demonstrated in the clinical performance of trainees who practiced on bench models.