3:54 PM Abstract No. 298 Simulation-based ultrasound-guided breast biopsy training improves operator knowledge, accuracy, and confidence

Abstract

Ultrasound (US)-guided breast biopsy is one of the most common techniques employed to obtained tissue for histologic analysis of breast pathology. Experience performing this procedure is almost entirely on patients, an approach fraught with anxiety and potential error. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of a breast-phantom in conjunction with a multimedia educational presentation in improving operator knowledge, procedural accuracy, and subjective comfort performing US-guided breast biopsy. Sixteen radiology resident physicians completed a written exam of multiple-choice questions (MCQ) covering the US-appearance of breast anatomy, commonly targeted pathologies, and clinical management of complications. Then residents completed a self-paced, interactive online module describing: mammographic, sonographic, and procedural concepts related to breast biopsy and pathology. Residents were allowed 30 minutes to practice on the breast phantom before completing a formal assessment of US-guided biopsy accuracy graded dichotomously by obtaining a sample of the intended pathology within the phantom. A posttest consisting of pair-matched MCQs was then administered. The average score on the written pretest was 72.7% and the average post-test score 95.3%, a statistically significant improvement (p<0.001). Accuracy obtaining intended sample correlated with post-gradate year and experience performing US-guided biopsy procedures. There was a statistically significant improvement in residents’ qualitative: comfort explaining the procedure (p<0.01), comfort performing the procedure (p<0.01), and handling complications (p<0.05). The phantom allowed residents an unrestricted opportunity to practice and refine their technique. The brief educational multimedia presentation and independent practice with the phantom resulted in both objective and subjective improvement in residents’ knowledge, procedural accuracy, and subjective comfort performing US-guided breast biopsy.