Simulation in neurosurgical training: a blueprint and national approach to implementation for initial years trainees

Abstract

Simulation has played an increasing role in surgical training in recent years, this follows from various reports such as the Chief Medical Officer annual report and Sir John Temple’s ‘Time for Training’ and also from other factors such as increasing focus on efficiency and transparency within the healthcare system. Evidence has shown that simulation can develop and improve technical, clinical, communication and management skills. With technological advances, the quality of simulation has also improved with more realistic models and environment. We have undertaken a review of recent drivers for simulation training in the UK, current techniques and have focused on the application of simulation training within the current UK Neurosurgical curriculum for newly appointed trainees.

Keywords:

• Simulation
• training
• education
• technology
• neurosurgery

Disclosure statement

Mr Lihan Zhang has no conflicts of interests to declare.

Mr Ian Kamaly is a member of the SAC in Neurosurgery, lead for the delivery of the National Neurosurgical Simulation Training Bootcamp for ST1 trainees, and is involved in local and national simulation training.

Professor Pramod Luthra is the lead Associate Dean for Technology Enhanced learning for HEE in the North West, core member of the North West Simulation Education Network, contributor to the Department of Health ‘Technology Enhanced Learning’ framework, member of the JCST Simulation working group, visiting Professor in simulation based learning and education and run postgraduate programmes in simulation at Manchester Metropolitan University and Edge Hill University.

Professor Peter Whitfield is the Secretary to the National Neurosurgery Selection Board, Vice Chairman of the SAC in Neurosurgery and Training Programme Director for Health Education England South West, and is involved in delivery local and national simulation training.