Practicing for life: landscape and priorities for simulation-based education in global children's surgery.

PURPOSE: Simulation-based education (SBE) is increasingly used in surgical training worldwide. With a shortage of specialized surgeons, SBE allows for skills acquisition in a safe environment, preserving patient safety and standardizing care. However, in global children's surgery, knowledge about SBE interest, use, and feasibility is limited.

METHODS

A 17-item survey was developed to examine simulation in global children's surgery. The survey was piloted (Nov 2024) and distributed (Dec 2024-Feb 2025) through the Global Initiative for Children Surgery (GICS), an organization with 1100+ members across 60 countries. Descriptive statistics and free responses were reported.

RESULTS

Of 85 respondents from 36 countries (approximately 7.7% response rate), over half used SBE in the past year, reaching about 1270 learners. The most common methods were low-cost models, mannequins, and bench trainers. Respondents identified several significant barriers to establishing SBE programs. Most (75%) simulation costs were under $300.

CONCLUSION

Access to SBE resources remains a major barrier, highlighting the critical need for access to open-source education materials. The low cost suggests a need to evaluate cost-effectiveness. Despite a limited response rate and sampling from one organization, the use of low-cost simulation and interest in advanced technologies reflect a trend toward enhancing simulation in global children's surgical education.