Simulation-based training as a continuous means of vascular surgical education-a roadmap

Background Simulation-based training has become an important part of the educational approach in many professions. Over the past decades it has slowly found recognition in the medical field and in surgery in particular. Research has clearly shown the advantages of learning and honing skills on simulators in safe environments, especially for junior doctors. For this purpose, a number of models and methods have been developed to enable open vascular surgery training. Methods Extensive research was performed for the development of simulation-based training for vascular surgery. Different types of models and techniques were investigated. Aspects of specific theoretical and practical means of education and training were considered. This initiated the development of a simulation center for open vascular surgery. Results Perfused simulators and necessary surgical instruments were acquired for open vascular surgery training at the Simulation Center of the Styrian state hospitals, located at the University Hospital, Graz Medical University, in Graz. A fully equipped mock operating room is available for simulation. In-house junior and senior doctors from the Department of Vascular Surgery have the monthly opportunity to perform simulation-based training. Courses for all state hospitals are planned twice per year. Conclusion Simulation-based training is a safe, efficient, and well-manageable possibility for improving the education of future experts in open vascular surgery. It can help hone simple skills such as suture techniques as well as prepare for complex surgical procedures. In time we hope to further integrate simulation-based training in the existing curriculum.