Development of an educational tool using qualitative analysis to teach components of Total Laparoscopic Hysterectomy
Technological Innovations
Highlights
Total Laparoscopic Hysterectomy (TLH) is a minimally invasive approach to hysterectomy that results in decreased patient morbidity. Despite these benefits, a recent survey discovered that many Canadian OBGYN residents are not receiving adequate training in TLH prior to graduation from residency. A novel educational video was systematically created, incorporating techniques from multiple surgical experts from the major Toronto academic hospital sites to teach TLH to OBGYN residents. This video tool was shown to improve overall knowledge scores and was overwhelmingly well-received by the resident trainees. Trainees would recommend this tool to their peers and recommend it should be incorporated into the residency training curriculum
Abstract
Objective
To create an educational video for teaching total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH) to OBGYN trainees
Methods
Seven surgical experts were interviewed and were recorded performing TLH. Qualitative and thematic analysis was used to synthesize a teaching curriculum until consensus was reached. An educational video was created and shown to small groups of consenting residents. Participants completed identical pre- and post-tests to assess their knowledge of evidence based practices showcased in the video. A paired T-test was used to compare scores. A detailed focus group discussion for quality improvement was conducted following the knowledge test.
Results
The difference between the mean knowledge test scores pre-intervention (mean score 5.1/10) compared to post-intervention (mean score 8.8/10) was an increase of 3.7/10, which was statistically significant (p-value 0.001, CI= 2.70-4.77). Residents felt the tool was highly effective in demonstrating anatomy, surgical techniques and clinical pearls relevant to TLH. 13/15 residents were satisfied with the length and depth of the tool and all 15 recommended including the tool in the residency curriculum.
Conclusion
A TLH video tool was systematically created, incorporating techniques from multiple surgical experts from the 3 academic gynecologic teaching hospitals in Toronto. This teaching tool improved gynecology trainees’ knowledge surrounding TLH surgical technique and anatomy in a safe environment that can be accessed frequently and conveniently. Trainees would recommend this tool to their peers and recommend it should be incorporated into the residency training curriculum.