Surgeons get some hands-on training in project

Prospective surgeons are learning life-saving skills thanks to surgical simulation training in the Highlands.

The Improving Surgical Training pilot scheme provides handson experience to trainee surgeons through simulation training at the Centre for Health Science in Inverness, as opposed to learning on real patients in a clinical setting.

The four-day event, led by NHS Highland working alongside NHS Education for Scotland, provides students with technical and nontechnical skills essential for success in the field, including learning how to join together blood

“We blend the technical and non-technical aspects”

vessels or parts of the intestinal system.

A new report by NHS Education for Scotland has now outlined the success of the scheme, through strong ratings by participating doctors.

Simulation lead and associate dean, Professor Ken Walker, a colorectal surgeon with NHS Highland, explained how the project prepares trainees for success.

He said: “We blend the technical and nontechnical aspects of the training together.

“It’s vital for trainees to master sound decision-making, team working and good communications. We set the trainees scenarios through simulated ward rounds and writing up operation notes, with constant feedback and debriefing.

“Tricky situations happen in surgery sometimes. It’s vital that through practising and understanding these skills, with a backdrop of civility and empathy, that trainees can reach an automated stage in their practice.”