# Role of Simulation Training in Hernia Surgery and Abdominal Wall Reconstruction

## TL;DR

Simulation training improves surgeons' skills and confidence in hernia surgery, making it a valuable addition to surgical education.

## Contribution

Demonstrates the effectiveness of simulation training in hernia surgery through a prospective observational study.

## Key findings

- Technical skill scores improved significantly after simulation training.
- Confidence levels of surgeons increased substantially post-training.
- Most participants found the simulation realistic and beneficial for skill development.

## Abstract

Hernia surgery requires precise technical skills to ensure successful patient outcomes. Traditional surgical training methods face challenges related to patient safety and limited operative exposure. Simulation training offers a risk-free platform to develop and refine surgical skills. This study evaluates the usefulness of simulation training for surgeons in hernia surgery.

To assess the effectiveness of simulation training in enhancing the surgical skills and confidence of surgeons performing hernia repair.

A prospective observational study was conducted with 44 surgical trainees undergoing simulation-based hernia surgery training. Technical skills and confidence levels were assessed before and after the training using standardized scoring systems. Participant feedback on the realism and applicability of simulation was also collected. Statistical analysis was performed using paired t-tests and chi-square tests.

Technical skill scores improved from a mean of 58.3(SD 8.4) pretraining, with a mean difference of 21.4, (95% Cl: 18.9 to 24.5, p < 0.001, effect size [Cohen’s d]∼2.1). Confidence scores increased from a mean of 4.2 (SD 1.5) to 7.8 (SD 1.2), with a mean difference of 3.6 (95% Cl: 3.1 to 4.3, p < 0.001, effect size [Cohen’s d}∼2.3). Over 85% of participants agreed that the simulation was realistic and beneficial for skill enhancement. Ninety-five percent recommended simulation training as a regular part of surgical education.

In the study Simulation training significantly improves the technical proficiency and confidence of surgeons in hernia surgery. Its incorporation into surgical training programs is recommended to enhance operative readiness but further multicentric studies are needed to validate their results.