New computational fluid dynamics-based method for morphological and functional assessment in cardiovascular skill training

Abstract

Objective: During cardiovascular surgical skill training, the direct quantification regarding surgical performance is still lacking, including transferring clinically relevant information. Methods: We introduced a novel computational fluid dynamics-based method in support of vascular surgical hands-on training, which applies continuous self-assessment in vascular anastomoses. The validation of the methodology was implemented in comparing with conventional training courses. Results: The fifth and seventh consecutive anastomoses of the experimental group showed significantly improved results regarding anastomosis quality when compared with the control group. Conclusions: Consecutive demonstration of three-dimensional morphology and functional assessment of anastomoses results in improved practical performance among learners regarding anastomosis quality.

Keywords

• 3D
• Anastomosis
• Computational fluid dynamics
• Objective assessment
• Skill assessment
• Skill training