Independent Learning of Electrosurgery in Gynecology: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Abstract

Objective:

With limited time for gynecologist residents to learn essential topics, proponents of gynecology residency programs are increasingly advocating brief training programs. The effectiveness of two such programs—independent learning with conventional text review and viewing a web-based podcast—were compared for teaching gynecology residents electrosurgery principles. This research was the second randomized trial and one of few controlled studies to compare text review with web-based gynecologic electrosurgery learning.

Materials and Methods:

Of 38 obstetrics and gynecology residents in two large academic medical centers, 26 were available, consented to participate in the study, and were randomized according to baseline electrosurgery knowledge and residency levels to learn electrosurgery principles independently via chapter review or by viewing an online podcast. Learning of ten electrosurgery principles was assessed using 25 validated multiple-choice questions; 5 included simulated operating-room photographs. Participants were tested before and immediately after the intervention, and 4 weeks later, and completed a satisfaction survey. The primary outcome, test-score improvement, was assessed by Student's t-tests and learner satisfaction was determined using χ² tests.

Results:

Among the participants, 26 residents took the pre-test, 25 took the post-test, and 23 completed the fourth-week post-test. Pre-test scores were similar (p = 0.46). Immediately after the intervention, chapter participants answered 64.3% of the questions correctly and podcast participants answered 54.8% of the questions correctly (p = 0.08). Both groups' scores fell at 4 weeks (−6.5% chapter versus −1.3% podcast; p = 0.21). Most participants felt that they were more knowledgeable and that the training would influence their operating room work.

Conclusions:

The groups' score differences were not meaningful, and both groups' poor scores indicated that the kind of brief electrosurgery training currently promoted could have limited effect on educating residents. (J GYNECOL SURG 33:51)