Cigar Box Arthroscopy: A Randomized Controlled Trial Validates Nonanatomic Simulation Training of Novice Arthroscopy Skills

Rory P. Sandberg, Nathan C. Sherman, L. Daniel Latt, Jolene C. Hardy

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

21 Scopus citations

Abstract

Purpose The goal of this study was to validate the cigar box arthroscopy trainer (CBAT) as a training tool and then compare its effectiveness to didactic training and to another previously validated low-fidelity but anatomic model, the anatomic knee arthroscopy trainer (AKAT). Methods A nonanatomic knee arthroscopy training module was developed at our institution. Twenty-four medical students with no prior arthroscopic or laparoscopic experience were enrolled as subjects. Eight subjects served as controls. The remaining 16 subjects were randomized to participate in 4 hours of either the CBAT or a previously validated AKAT. Subjects' skills were assessed by 1 of 2 faculty members through repeated attempts at performing a diagnostic knee arthroscopy on a cadaveric specimen. Objective scores were given using a minimally adapted version of the Basic Arthroscopic Knee Skill Scoring System. Total cost differences were calculated. Results Seventy-five percent of subjects in the CBAT and AKAT groups succeeded in reaching minimum proficiency in the allotted time compared with 25% in the control group (P <.05). There was no significant difference in the number of attempts to reach proficiency between the CBAT and AKAT groups. The cost to build the CBAT was $44.12, whereas the cost was $324.33 for the AKAT. Conclusions This pilot study suggests the CBAT is an effective knee arthroscopy trainer that may decrease the learning curve of residents without significant cost to a residency program. This study demonstrates the need for an agreed-upon objective scoring system to properly evaluate residents and compare the effectiveness of different training tools.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)2015-2023.e3
JournalArthroscopy - Journal of Arthroscopic and Related Surgery
Volume33
Issue number11
DOIs
StatePublished - Nov 2017

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Cigar Box Arthroscopy: A Randomized Controlled Trial Validates Nonanatomic Simulation Training of Novice Arthroscopy Skills'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this