Sports Ultrasound Training During a Pandemic: Developing a "Hands-on" Skill Through Distance Learning.

Abstract

ABSTRACTSports ultrasound (US) training is required in sports medicine fellowships. US is taught through a combination of self-directed learning, didactic lectures, and “in-person” training sessions. “Hands-on” formal instruction is thought to be a vital component of US skill acquisition. However, during a pandemic and social distancing practices, “in-person” ultrasound training sessions are not possible. Display of ultrasound machine image and probe positioning can be shared in real time through virtual platforms, which allows for direct instructor education and feedback. This virtual method of US teaching may be complementary to traditional US teaching methods in the future.ABSTRACT“Hands-on” teaching is an important part of sports ultrasound (US) education in sports medicine fellowships. However, physical distancing requirements during a global pandemic have resulted in cancellation and/or postponement of “in-person” educational sessions, US conferences, and clinical diagnostic and interventional US cases that enhance US training. In order for “hands-on” sports US teaching to continue during these uncertain times, the educational model must be adapted. The use of virtual meeting platforms to display US images is possible, and this not only allows for instructor demonstration, but also gives the instructor an opportunity to observe the learner scanning and provide direct feedback in real-time. Moving forward, virtual US teaching methods will likely continue to be of educational value, as they provide increased access to individualized instruction from skilled instructors and eliminate travel time and cost of conferences and instructional sessions.