Simulation for training in oral cancer biopsy: A surgical model and feedback from GDPs

J Seoane,P Diz,G Esparza-Gomez,Jm Seoane-Romero,R Cerero-Lapiedra,P Varela-Centelles

doi:10.4317/medoral.17998

J Seoane, P Diz + Show 4 more

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https://doi.org/10.4317/medoral.17998

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Abstract

Objectives: To describe a new bench model for oral precancer/cancer biopsy training and to assess its effectiveness in terms of trainees’ perception. Study design: Cross-sectional, descriptive, performed on 424 general dental practitioners (GDP) who undertook biopsies on a pig tongue. The participants were assessed by direct observation for 2.5 hours using specific check-lists and by means of a self-applied questionnaire. Results: The workshop was perceived as “very interesting” even by those with previous surgical experience (Xi - Xj = 0.07; 95%CI= -0.20-0.09). Most GDPs considered themselves able to undertake oral biopsies on real patients after the workshop. Those who had previously received theoretical continuous education courses on oral biopsy scored higher values within the group (Xi - Xj = 0.20; 95%CI= 0.04-0.37). Conclusions: There is a need for including clinical abilities workshops when instructing on oral biopsy techniques. More studies are needed to validate the procedure and to address cognitive and communication skills. Key words:Models, animal, education, dental, continuing, biopsy, oral cancer, oral surgical procedures.

Highlights

Oral cancer is a global health problem with increasing incidence and mortality rates [1,2]
Tion and palpation followed by tissue biopsy and histopathological diagnosis [5], being the latter the gold standard for diagnostic procedures and mandatory for every lesion suspicious for malignancy [6], which is paramount for an early detection of oral cancer [7,8]
While some authors advocate for a non-intervention attitude by general dental practitioners (GDPs) when dealing with lesions suspicious for oral cancer or precancer (“no panic, no biopsy, and immediate referral”) [9], others encourage GDPs to biopsy these lesions to assist in the early detection of oral cancer [7] as many studies consider biopsy procedures well within the scope of training and ability for a GDP [6,10]

Summary

Introduction

Oral cancer is a global health problem with increasing incidence and mortality rates [1,2]. Tion and palpation followed by tissue biopsy and histopathological diagnosis [5], being the latter the gold standard for diagnostic procedures and mandatory for every lesion suspicious for malignancy [6], which is paramount for an early detection of oral cancer [7,8]. While some authors advocate for a non-intervention attitude by general dental practitioners (GDPs) when dealing with lesions suspicious for oral cancer or precancer (“no panic, no biopsy, and immediate referral”) [9], others encourage GDPs to biopsy these lesions to assist in the early detection of oral cancer [7] as many studies consider biopsy procedures well within the scope of training and ability for a GDP [6,10]. The aim of this study was to describe a new bench model (workshop of abilities) for oral precancer/cancer biopsy training that simulates the surgical environment and to assess its effectiveness in terms of trainees’ perception

Objectives

Methods

Findings

Conclusion