Teaching experience, not surgical residency training, is the critical factor in optimizing student learning outcomes in performing ovariohysterectomy on a model.

Abstract

Objective: To determine if surgical skills instructors' experience and qualifications influence students' learning of small animal ovariohysterectomy on a model (mOVH).

Sample population: Second-year veterinary students (n = 105).

Methods: Students were randomized to three groups, taught by: (1) residency-trained surgeons with over 3 years' experience teaching mOVH, (2) general practitioners with over 3 years' experience teaching mOVH (GP >3), and (3) general practitioners with under 3 years' experience (GP <3). Students completed four 3-h laboratories where they performed mOVH under the supervision of one of the three types of instructors. Students were assessed performing mOVH using a validated 22-item rubric and completed a survey about their experience.

Results: GP <3 group students achieved lower total rubric scores than GP >3 group students (p = .021). Surgeon-taught students' scores did not differ from those taught by GP >3 (p = .685) or GP <3 (p = .052). GP <3 group students were more likely to require remediation than those taught by surgeons (p = .001); there were no differences between the other groups (surgeons vs. GP >3 p = .44; GP <3 vs. GP >3 p = .11). Students reported similar satisfaction with their instruction. Instructors with over 3 years' experience teaching mOVH had better student learning outcomes compared to instructors with under 3 years of experience. While mOVH teaching experience did influence learning, the instructor's completion of a surgical residency did not.

Conclusion: The results of the study indicate a need for more extensive training for new surgical skills instructors and demonstrates that GPs with experience teaching surgical skills are suitable instructors for teaching ovariohysterectomy on a model.

Clinical relevance: This study indicates a need for more extensive training for new surgical skills instructors and demonstrates that GPs with experience teaching surgical skills are suitable instructors for teaching ovariohysterectomy on a model.