In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the need for improved training for medical students and residents, particularly in performing invasive procedures safely and effectively. Many new residents and medical students have expressed concerns about inadequate training and a lack of preparedness when performing invasive procedures on patients during residency. This challenge has highlighted the importance of developing teaching methods that enhance the skills needed for complex medical procedures, especially when it comes to ultrasound-guided procedures, such as point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) training.
The Role of Ultrasound Training in Medical Education
Ultrasound guidance is a critical skill in modern medicine. Studies have shown that U/S-guided procedures significantly reduce complication rates and improve success rates for new learners. Ultrasound training spans multiple clinical disciplines, providing a versatile tool that is accessible to novice users and adds minimal risk to patients. However, the traditional approach to US-guided procedures, such as cyst drainage, involves practicing on live patients during residency—a method that comes with risks, especially for untrained providers.
The intricate nature of these procedures, which requires high levels of spatial reasoning and hand–eye coordination, means that errors are common. One prevalent mistake among trainees is failing to appropriately visualize and track the needle tip, increasing the risk of injury to deeper structures. Research has consistently demonstrated that simulation training significantly reduces novice errors, enhances patient outcomes, and boosts the confidence and competence of performing clinicians.
A Novel Approach: Simulation Training with Formalin-Embalmed Cadavers
Recognizing the need for safer, more effective training methods, a recent study conducted at the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College explored a novel simulation-based approach. The study aimed to develop a practical, realistic, and cost-effective method for teaching medical students to perform US-guided needle aspiration of synthetic cysts in formalin-embalmed cadavers.
This approach allowed new medical trainees to practice their skills in a low-stress environment, free from patient risk. The study involved 30 first-year medical students, most of whom had no prior experience with US-guided procedures. Participants underwent a structured training program, including watching a video tutorial, hands-on practice with synthetic cysts embedded in cadaver tissue, and an objective skills assessment.
Key Findings: Improved Confidence and Competence
The results of the study were compelling. The simulation training significantly boosted participants' self-confidence in performing various aspects of the procedure. Pre-training surveys showed a lack of confidence, with mean scores around 1.18 on a 5-point Likert scale. After the training, confidence levels rose dramatically to 4.31. Notably, confidence in performing the procedure on a live patient without assistance increased from 1.06 to 3.70, reflecting the effectiveness of the hands-on ultrasound training.
Additionally, the skills assessment showed that participants could independently image and fully drain a synthetic cyst in less than five minutes on average, with a mean of 1.9 attempts. Only two of the 30 participants failed to complete the procedure within the time limit, highlighting the overall success of the training method.
Instructors’ Influence on Training Outcomes
Interestingly, the study also compared the effectiveness of different types of instructors, including a second-year medical student, a clinical anatomist with extensive US education experience, and an emergency medicine physician with US training. No significant differences were found in participants' performance or confidence levels across the instructor groups. This suggests that effective ultrasound training can be delivered by a variety of instructors, provided they have prior experience and follow a standardized teaching rubric.
Conclusion: The Future of Ultrasound Training in Medical Education
The study demonstrated that using formalin-embalmed cadavers and synthetic cysts to create realistic simulation scenarios is a feasible and effective method for teaching US-guided procedures. The training significantly improved medical students' confidence and competence, suggesting that early and realistic practice opportunities are crucial for developing essential ultrasound skills. Additionally, the use of simulation training could reduce patient discomfort and complications when trainees eventually perform these procedures on live patients.
How SonoSim Can Help Prepare Students for Ultrasound Training
At SonoSim, we recognize the critical need for accessible and effective ultrasound training for medical trainees. Our solutions provide a comprehensive suite of ultrasound education tools that can help bridge the training gap identified in this study. From hands-on scanning modules to real-time feedback on needle guidance, SonoSim equips medical trainees with the skills they need to confidently perform point-of-care ultrasound and other ultrasound-guided procedures. Learn more about how SonoSim works.