Current status of surgical training with simulation in Venezuela

Abstract

Simulation represents a beneficial tool for acquiring surgical skills. Its availability in developing countries poses a significant obstacle in contemporary surgical education. Objective: To identify surgical training centers in Venezuela that use simulation for technical skills training, and to understand the opinion of members of the Venezuelan Society of Surgery (SVC) regarding its use for developing open surgical skills. Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive study. Surveys were sent via email to all active SVC members. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis and presentation. Results: Of the 1,115 surveys sent, 111 were completed. 67.6% of the participants were unaware of the existence of simulation-based surgical training centers. 99.1% agreed with implementing simulation as a complementary training method and considered training in open surgery skills important. 94.6% stated that training should be structured and conducted in modules starting with basic tasks and progressing to more complex procedures; 75% of the advanced procedures that should be practiced more frequently were related to the gastrointestinal system, with intestinal anastomoses (74.7%) being particularly highlighted. Conclusion: The majority of surgeons in Venezuelan healthcare institutions do not have access to simulation as an educational tool, despite agreeing that its implementation is highly beneficial for the development of technical skills.