Addressing global microneurosurgery education and laboratory training during and after the COVID-19 pandemic: from challenges to innovations.

Abstract

Objective: The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant global challenges, particularly in its disruption of surgical education, training, and research. The University of Wisconsin (UW)-Madison Microneurosurgery Laboratory, an internationally recognized training center, had to rapidly adapt to continue its mission amid pandemic restrictions. In this study the authors evaluated their laboratory's response during and after the pandemic, focusing on the challenges encountered, innovative strategies used, and their impact on ongoing operations and global neurosurgery outreach.

Methods: A retrospective review was conducted of the UW-Madison Microneurosurgery Laboratory's operations and global neurosurgery outreach efforts from the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic to the present, focusing on the challenges encountered and the innovations implemented. An online survey was also conducted to gather data on fellows' experiences in the post-COVID-19 era. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were used to evaluate the data.

Results: The review revealed that the COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the laboratory's operations and global outreach, prompting adaptations to maintain training continuity. From March 2020 to April 2021, strict restrictions limited in-person activities, but innovative solutions such as remote teaching, virtual courses, and distributed training kits helped sustain microsurgical education. After restrictions eased, the authors' laboratory resumed hands-on training and expanded outreach efforts.

Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic prompted transformative innovations in surgical training at the UW-Madison Microneurosurgery Laboratory, including the adoption of remote teaching, home training kits, and the Madison Objective Self-Assessment Tool. These adaptations ensured training continuity and expanded global access, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The lessons learned have shaped a sustainable hybrid training approach that continues to enhance neurosurgical education and address barriers to access.