Peer-reviewed article
Practicing for life: landscape and priorities for simulation-based education in global children's surgery.
Lawrence YS, Udeigwe-Okeke CR, Stella NA, Faktor KL, Nataraja RM et al. ·
Summary
Written by AI, not yet AICS's view · claude-haiku-4-5-20251001This peer-reviewed article examines the use of simulation-based education in children's surgical training globally through a survey of 85 surgeons across 36 countries. Over half of respondents had used simulation in the past year, mostly employing low-cost models and mannequins. The study identifies access to simulation resources and cost as major barriers to establishing simulation programs, and recommends development of open-source educational materials.
Key points
- Over 50% of respondents used simulation-based education in the past year, reaching approximately 1,270 learners
- Most common simulation methods were low-cost models, mannequins, and bench trainers
- 75% of simulation costs were under $300
- Access to simulation resources identified as a major barrier to program establishment
- Need highlighted for open-source education materials and cost-effectiveness evaluation
Limitations
The survey had a low response rate (7.7%) and sampled only from members of one organization (GICS), limiting generalizability. The document does not evaluate whether simulation-based education actually improves surgical outcomes or competency for children.
Abstract
Purpose Simulation-based education (SBE) is increasingly used in surgical training worldwide. With a shortage of specialized surgeons, SBE allows for skills acquisition in a safe environment, preserving patient safety and standardizing care. However, in global children's surgery, knowledge about SBE interest, use, and feasibility is limited. Methods A 17-item survey was developed to examine simulation in global children's surgery. The survey was piloted (Nov 2024) and distributed (Dec 2024-Feb 2025) through the Global Initiative for Children Surgery (GICS), an organization with 1100+ members across 60 countries. Descriptive statistics and free responses were reported. Results Of 85 respondents from 36 countries (approximately 7.7% response rate), over half used SBE in the past year, reaching about 1270 learners. The most common methods were low-cost models, mannequins, and bench trainers. Respondents identified several significant barriers to establishing SBE programs. Most (75%) simulation costs were under $300. Conclusion Access to SBE resources remains a major barrier, highlighting the critical need for access to open-source education materials. The low cost suggests a need to evaluate cost-effectiveness. Despite a limited response rate and sampling from one organization, the use of low-cost simulation and interest in advanced technologies reflect a trend toward enhancing simulation in global children's surgical education.