Research and Reports in Urology (Mar 2020)
Current Status of Simulation Training in Urology: A Non-Systematic Review
Abstract
Andrei Adrian Kozan,1 Luke Huiming Chan,2 Chandra Shekhar Biyani3 1Department of Urology, Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Castle Hill Hospital, Cottingham, UK; 2Department of Urology, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield, UK; 3Department of Urology, The Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, St James’s University Hospital, Leeds, UKCorrespondence: Chandra Shekhar BiyaniSt James’s University Hospital, Department of Urology, Lincoln Wing, Beckett Street, Leeds LS9 7TF, UKTel +44 113 2433144Email [email protected]: Simulation has emerged as an effective solution to increasing modern constraints in surgical training. It is recognized that a larger proportion of surgical complications occur during the surgeon’s initial learning curve. The simulation takes the learning curve out of the operating theatre and facilitates training in a safe and pressure-free environment whilst focusing on patient safety. The cost of simulation is not insignificant and requires commitment in funding, human resources and logistics. It is therefore important for trainers to have evidence when selecting various simulators or devices. Our non-systematic review aims to provide a comprehensive up-to-date picture on urology simulators and the evidence for their validity. It also discusses emerging technologies and future directions. Urologists should embed evidence-based simulation in training programs to shorten learning curves while maintaining patient safety and work should be directed toward a validated and agreed curriculum.Keywords: simulation, education, learning, skills, innovation, urology
