Role and value of simulation in plastic surgery education and training: recommendations for implementation

Abstract

The aim of the study was to elucidate the role and value of simulation in postgraduate plastic surgery training. The research questions were: What are the role and value of simulation in postgraduate plastic surgery training? Is simulation useful in addressing the lack of opportunities for clinical exposure and practice? What are points of departure to consider for the use of simulation in training? Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with national and international experts in simulation and postgraduate education, and by a Delphi process collecting expert opinions of plastic surgeons. We discuss the role and value of simulation and matters to consider when contemplating the implementation of simulation. We also describe factors that influence and drive the implementation of simulation. The research outcomes resulted recommendations regarding the successful implementation of simulation in postgraduate plastic surgery training, thus indicating how simulation might be used to enhance learning and to improve students' knowledge, clinical competence, clinical skills, and professional conduct.