Premium
Evaluation of tools to assess operative competence in endovascular procedures: a systematic review
Author(s) -
Saricilar Erin C.,
Freeman Anthony,
Burgess Annette
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
anz journal of surgery
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.426
H-Index - 70
eISSN - 1445-2197
pISSN - 1445-1433
DOI - 10.1111/ans.16653
Subject(s) - medicine , modalities , competence (human resources) , systematic review , medical physics , randomized controlled trial , fidelity , medline , surgery , computer science , psychology , social psychology , social science , telecommunications , sociology , political science , law
Abstract Background With an increase in the use of endovascular interventions as an alternative to open surgery and the unique technical skills required, current methods for assessing the competence of vascular surgery trainees may not be optimal, suggesting a need for a shift in assessment modalities. We conducted this systematic review to explore current assessment methods used in vascular surgery training to assess competence specific to endovascular procedures. Methods A comprehensive literature search was performed with a structured search strategy using terms focusing on endovascular procedures and assessment. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were used in order to screen for suitable articles. Results We identified 54 articles that satisfied the inclusion criteria. These included a single randomized controlled trial, a single systematic review, a single narrative review and a single literature review, with the vast majority having level 2 evidence. Global rating scales, proficiency assessments and written/oral examinations were described as standard current assessment tools. These modalities lack reproducibility and objectivity, neglecting the needs of assessment of endovascular procedures requiring specialized decision making and finger dexterity. Novel methods such as high fidelity simulation and virtual reality promote reproducible and objective assessment methods in the context of endovascular surgery, and have a promising future. Conclusion While current assessment methods in vascular surgery are widely supported the changing skills required of a vascular surgery trainee warrants a shift in assessment modalities to better align to these requirements. High fidelity simulations show promise, although they require more extensive research to understand their relative merits.