Development and dissemination of a series of surgical skills and procedures video tutorials using a novel, low-cost, and sustainable simulation kit (GlobalSurgBox).

Abstract

Introduction: Surgical simulation and video-based learning are limited in lower-resource settings. We sought to develop and assess a series of surgical tutorials using a low-cost simulator.

Methods: We created 8 surgical skills and procedures videos using low-cost equipment. We assessed video quality using the DISCERN scale and the Global Quality Scale (GQS).

Results: Videos ranged from surgical techniques to complex procedures. We uploaded these to Youtube and included them in the curriculum of a medical school in Rwanda. Excluding the cost of the kit (25 USD), production costs ranged from 2 to 5 USD. All videos scored a mean DISCERN of 2.44 ​± ​1.05 and GQS of 3.06 ​± ​0.90. Generally, these lacked points on providing additional sources of information and addressing areas of uncertainty.

Conclusions: This study addresses the demand for accessible surgical education resources. Using low-cost, standardized materials ensures consistency, democratization of training, and feasibility.