In Reply: A New Trend of Blended Learning in Neurosurgical Training: Fellowship of Neuroendoscopy.

Abstract

To the Editor: We read the reply letter to the editor by Rahman et al entitled “In Reply: A New Trend of Blended Learning in Neurosurgical Training: Fellowship of Neuroendoscopy” with great interest.1-3 The authors argue that modern simulation-based training systems are not an ultimate solution for multiple drawbacks, including limited applications for some systems and difficulty or high cost for others. In a conflicting elaboration, they invited policymakers to “start manufacturing these simulators in their own countries to decrease the cost.” We would agree that the cost may be high, especially for low-income countries, and the manufacturers' funding support or special pricing would be a great gesture. However, the call for manufacturing those simulators locally may be ambitious and more of a long-term solution. Establishing a good infrastructure and interested market to attract big industry names is not easy. The authors did not suggest any alternative; it is known that regular cadaveric workshops are costly, have a limited capacity per session, are not reusable, and may not even be an option in many less fortunate countries. We conclude that simulation-based training systems are a good option in the absence of short-term realistic alternatives.