Abstract
Background. Early detection of breast cancer relies on a multidisciplinary approach that includes patient breast self‐examination, radiographic studies, and clinical breast examination (CBE). This study was undertaken to assess the value of formal CBE instruction by the surgery department using solicone breast models. Methods. Thirty students were randomized in their first week of junior surgical clerkship to undergo or forgo a one‐hour CBE retraining session. They were subsequently evaluated on technical competence and the ability to detect masses in an opaque sil‐icone breast model. These skills were reassessed one month later. Results. The students who underwent the teaching session performed significantly better than the control group in both the early (scores 1.23 vs 2.67, p < 0.05) and the late (scores 0.15 vs 2.14, p < 0.05) testing sessions. Con‐clusions. These data suggest significant improvement in CBE in students receiving formalized instruction. Further evaluation is needed prior to incorporation of this technique into the surgery core curriculum.