Residents need to learn many skills before performing safely and independent in the operating theater. Essential skills that are considered important for performing arthroscopy are anatomical knowledge, triangulation, and spatial perception. Sufficient metrics are available to monitor training performance. Motion, time, and force information can be combined in specific metrics that indicate instrument handling efficiency and risks on hazards during tissue handling. Translation of skills into measurable learning objectives is very well feasible for training skill-based behavior. ... Read more

The purpose of this study was to generate consensus among experienced surgeons on what skills a resident should possess before continuing safe training in the operating room (OR). An online survey of 65 questions was developed and distributed to surgeons in the European community. A total of 216 responded. The survey included 15 questions regarding generic and specific skills; 16 on patient and tissue manipulation, 11 on knowledge of pathology and 6 on inspection of e-anatomical structures; 5 methods to prepare residents; and 12 on specific skills exercises. The importance of each question (arthroscopic skill) was evaluated ranging from 1 (not important at all) to 6 (very important). Chi-square test, respondent agreement, and a qualitative ranking method were determined to identify the top ranked skills (p < 0.05). The top four of general skills considered important were anatomical knowledge, tissue manipulation, spatial perception, and triangulation (all chi-square test > 134, p < 0.001, all excellent agreement > 0.85, and all high priority level). The top ranked 2 specific arthroscopic skills were portal placement and triangulating the tip of the probe with a 30-degree scope (chi-square test > 176, p < 0.001, excellent agreement, and assigned high priority). The online survey identified consensus on skills that are considered important for a trainee to possess before continuing training in the OR. Compared with the Canadian colleagues, the European arthroscopy community demonstrated similar ranking. ... Read more