Training simulator for improving surgical skills in residents

Training Simulator Efficacy in Developing Thoracic and General Surgical Skills in an Academic Residency Program: a Pilot Study

Not applicable Interventional Università degli Studi dell'Insubria · NCT05436899

This study is testing a virtual training simulator to see if more frequent practice can help first and second-year surgery residents improve their surgical skills.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment36 (estimated)
Ages24 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversità degli Studi dell'Insubria Academic / other
Locations1 site (Varese)
Trial IDNCT05436899 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This pilot study aims to enhance the surgical skills of first and second-year thoracic and general surgery residents through a virtual training simulator. Trainees will be randomized into two groups: one receiving intensive training twice a week and the other receiving non-intensive training once a week. The program consists of four modules over 12 weeks, with specific goals for each surgical skill. Data on the duration of surgical maneuvers and errors will be collected to evaluate the effectiveness of the training methods.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are first and second-year residents in thoracic or general surgery.

Not a fit: Fully trained surgeons and those not in their first or second year of residency will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly improve the surgical skills and confidence of residents, leading to better patient outcomes in laparoscopic surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success with simulation-based training in surgical education, indicating a promising approach for skill enhancement.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Trainees at the first and second year of residency in thoracic or general surgery

Exclusion Criteria:

* Fully trained surgeons
* Persons who are not trainees at year of specialization higher than the second

Where this trial is running

Varese

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Laparoscopic SurgeryMedical EducationSimulation TrainingEducationSimulationVirtual realityLaparoscopic surgeryLearning curve
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.