Final-year veterinary student performance on an ovariohysterectomy model predicts surgical performance

Abstract

Background: A veterinary student's first soft tissue surgery on a live animal is a major milestone during their clinical training. It can however, be a somewhat overwhelming experience if they are inadequately prepared. Canine ovariohysterectomy (OVH) is a commonly performed procedure in general veterinary practice and requires competence in a broad range of surgical skills such as haemostasis, ligation and tissue handling, all of which have been identified as critical Day One skills for a new graduate to possess. At the Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, students receive lectures and notes on performing an OVH and during their clinical year, they have access to a step-by-step video showing the procedure, a live demonstration and a practical session in the Clinical Skills Laboratory where they perform a canine OVH on a model prior to doing the procedure on a live animal. Objective: To determine whether student performance on the OVH model had a predictive value in relation to their surgical performance on a live-animal. Study design: Prospective descriptive cohort cross-sectional study Materials & Methods: One hundred and eight students participated in the study and their performance on the model and live animals was assessed using a predetermined rubric. Results: The results showed that the OVH model assessment mark is a strong predictor of the subsequent live surgery assessment mark. Conclusions and clinical relevance: These results will enable us to provide timely targeted intervention to students that require additional skills training.