A systematic review of methodological principles and delivery of surgical simulation bootcamps

Am J Surg. 2022 Jun;223(6):1079-1087. doi: 10.1016/j.amjsurg.2021.10.044. Epub 2021 Nov 24.

Abstract

Background: The growth of "bootcamp style" simulation training in surgical practice has been exponential over the last decade. Developing and delivering a surgical bootcamp requires a significant investment. This systematic review aims to identify the key components that allow for a successful and rewarding surgical bootcamp course to be implemented that can be applied to all surgical specialities.

Methods: To understand the surgical bootcamp principles and delivery mechanisms, we searched peer-reviewed, English language studies published between 2000 and 21.

Results: From 137 articles, 14 studies with a Medical Education Research Quality Instrument Score of >11.5 were included. Most studies followed the core components; delivery at transition (12), mapping syllabus (13), multimodality delivery (14), and deliberate practice with formative feedback (12) apart from 1:1 training by only 2 studies.

Conclusions: Our review suggests that Surgical bootcamp can be an extremely useful education tool for trainees if 5 pillars of a boot camp are respected.

Keywords: Bootcamp; Orthopaedic; Surgical; Urology.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Clinical Competence
  • Computer Simulation
  • Education, Medical*
  • Humans
  • Simulation Training*