SE08 PROSPECTIVE CONTROLLED STUDY OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF STRUCTURED TRAINING IN ULTRASOUND GUIDED PERCUTANEOUS BREAST NEEDLE BIOPSY

Abstract

Effective training is essential to ensure satisfactory performance in surgeon performed ultrasound (US) guided breast needle biopsies. We aim to determine the efficacy and optimal format of structured training in US breast biopsy.Method: Consenting participants of the US for Surgeons Workshop at the General Surgeons Australia 2008 Annual Scientific Meeting were recruited. Theory assessment included a brief pre‐test (control), lecture series then a post‐test. Practical assessment involved US biopsies using turkey phantoms implanted with simulated lesions (olives). Pre‐instructional biopsies were assessed, followed by structured instructions by qualified instructors and concluded with post‐instructional biopsy assessment. Points rewarded for successful biopsies (defined criteria) and deducted for simulated chest wall hits (complications). Previous experience and training in US biopsy were recorded. Pre and post lecture/instructional results were compared and correlation tested using Student's t‐test (significance: p < 0.05).Results: 14 participants recruited: 93% had none to moderate experience with US biopsies. Theory component: 27.4% improvement over pre‐test (p < 0.001). Practical component: 26% improvement after instruction (p = 0.004); improvement most marked in the group with moderate experience (38%, p = 0.003). No chest wall hit were recorded following instructions.Conclusion: Structured workshop is an effective tool in the training of US guided breast biopsy. Both theory & practical components demonstrated similar efficacy and should be considered integral components in training programmes. More importantly formal training may decrease potential complication rate, especially for the less experienced.