Abstract

Background: The aim of this study was to assess a variety of issues related to the perceived effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on medical student learning experiences. We aimed to assess the use of surgeon’s-eye view live surgical streaming to increase exposure to orthopaedic surgery and improve learning opportunities for junior medical professionals. This would allow us to explore the perceived barriers to surgical training using novel teaching techniques.

Methods: A pair of surgical glasses with inbuilt two-way communication was used to live stream surgical cases to a seminar room. The seminar room was set up for the learners to watch the live streaming surgery and they were supported by a suitable knowledgeable tutor (orthopaedic registrar or consultant) who could provide real-time support. Pre and post live screening learner questionnaires were used to assess the aims of the session. Learners included junior medical professionals [senior medical students, foundation year (PGY1-2) and senior house officers (PGY2-4) doctors] in training.

Results: There was an improvement in the understanding of the surgical anatomy and key steps for the procedure in question. The session also helped to ease perceived fears around the operating theatres, and we observed a marked increase in confidence to attend in-person theatre sessions following the live streaming.

Conclusions: Streaming of surgery with live interaction with learners can provide an alternative safe environment to provide junior medical professionals with experience of operating theatres in trauma and orthopaedics. Additionally, it can allow for greater numbers of observers for the surgical procedure. Whilst it cannot replace the importance of ‘actual’ theatre exposure, it can provide a pathway to improve learners’ confidence and knowledge surrounding the orthopaedic profession.