title: The use of a simulation center to improve resident proficiency in performing ultrasound-guided procedures.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  With advancements in technology and push for health care reform and reduced costs, minimally invasive procedures, such as those that are ultrasound-guided, have become an essential part of radiology, and are used in many divisions of radiology. By incorporating standardized training methodologies in a risk free environment through utilization of a simulation center with phantom training, we hope to improve proficiency and confidence in procedural performance.
  
  
  METHODS
  Twenty-nine radiology residents from four levels of training were enrolled in this prospective study. The residents were given written, video, and live interactive training on the basics of ultrasound-guided procedures in our simulation center on a phantom mannequin. All of the teaching materials were created by residents and staff radiologists at the institution.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Residents demonstrated statistically significant improvement (P < .05) between their pre- and posttest scores on both the written and practical examinations. They also showed a trend toward improved dexterity in the technical aspects of ultrasound-guided procedures (P = .07) after training. On the survey questionnaire, residents confirm improved knowledge level, technical ability, and confidence levels pertaining to ultrasound-guided procedures.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The use of controlled simulation based training can be an invaluable tool to improve the knowledge level, dexterity, and confidence of residents performing ultrasound-guided procedures. Additionally, a simulation model allows standardization of education.
authors.affiliation: Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital, Boston, MA 02215, USA. mishal_lala@yahoo.com
authors.forename: Mishal
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Mendiratta-Lala
authors.forename: Todd
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Williams
authors.forename: Nishant
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: de Quadros
authors.forename: John
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Bonnett
authors.forename: Vivek
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Mendiratta
mesh_terms: D003194:Computer-Assisted Instruction / Q000379:methods*; D007396:Internship and Residency / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D008404:Massachusetts; D011361:Professional Competence / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D025321:Surgery, Computer-Assisted / Q000193:education* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D018084:Ultrasonography, Interventional / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*