Cervical cerclage training: Development and assessment of a simulator

The role of cervical cerclage in preventing preterm birth

Cervical cerclage is an established intervention for the prevention of preterm birth in high-risk pregnancies. Although there is evidence to support the use of cervical cerclage in certain clinical situations, questions remain regarding its optimal application. As there are multiple underlying aetiologies of preterm birth, identifying the population of women who would benefit most from cerclage remains an ongoing clinical challenge. Moreover, establishing optimal surgical techniques and perioperative management strategies are areas of interest. This review explores the current role of cerclage in the prevention of preterm birth, while highlighting key areas for future research.

Development and validation of a cost-effective DIY simulation model for McDonald cerclage training

PURPOSE

The prevention of preterm birth is a challenging task for obstetricians. Cervical cerclage, used as both a primary and secondary prevention method for spontaneous preterm birth, is a crucial surgical intervention. It is essential that obstetricians can learn this procedure in a simulated environment before performing the stitches on high-risk patients. This study aimed to develop a simulator based on 3D printing and evaluate its validity for clinical training.

METHODS

The objectives of this study were (1) to design and construct a cost-effective simulator for McDonald cerclage with two different cervix models-a closed cervix and a cervix with bulging membranes-using common material from a DIY store and 3D printing technology and (2) to validate its effectiveness through feedback from learners and experts in cervical cerclage. The self-made simulator was evaluated by obstetricians using a questionnaire with Likert scale.

RESULTS

Obstetricians and gynecologists assessed the simulator and found it useful for learning and practicing cervical cerclage. The simulator was deemed valuable for skill training.

CONCLUSION

Cervical cerclage is a complex procedure that should be mastered through simulation rather than initial practice on real patients. Our simulator is a cost-effective model suitable for various clinical settings. It has been validated by obstetricians for both preventive and therapeutic cerclage, demonstrating its efficacy for training in cerclage techniques. Future research should focus on less skilled obstetricians and gynecologists and investigate how repeated use of the simulator can enhance their performance in cerclage stitching.

Transvaginal cervical cerclage - How well do surgeons assess their own procedures?

INTRODUCTION

In women with cervical incompetence, transvaginal cerclage may help prevent preterm birth. However, training for this procedure poses challenges due to the low number of cases and difficulties in visualizing the operative field. Furthermore, the objective criteria for a successful cerclage procedure are not well-described. Quality assessment relies heavily on self-assessment rather than objective criteria and feedback. To address this issue, training on a simulator may offer a solution. We aimed to objectively assess surgical performance and compare it to the self-assessed performance in transvaginal cerclage procedures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

During the Nordic Federation of Obstetrics and Gynecology (NFOG) congress in 2023, surgeons proficient in transvaginal cerclage procedures performed a transvaginal cerclage on a simulator. To compare the observed and self-assessed outcomes we obtained measurements on the cerclage height and number of bites from the detachable cervix, and from computed tomography scans we analyzed suture bite depth, reduction of cervix surface area, and whether cerclages had perforated the cervical canal. The same outcomes were self-assessed by each participant after the cerclage procedure. We visualized the continuous paired data in a Bland-Altman plot and compared these data with a paired t-test. Paired binary data was analyzed using McNemars test.

RESULTS

29 participants from eight different nationalities performed one transvaginal cerclage each. The mean height of the cerclage was 26.8 mm (SD 9 mm) and mean depth was 6.5 mm (SD 1.9 mm) across a mean of 4.1 (SD 0.8) bites. The mean reduction of the cervix surface area was 7.6 % (SD 5.9 %). Two sutures perforated the cervical canal. The participants significantly underestimated the height of their cerclage with a mean difference of 6.0 mm (95 % CI 2.1-9.9), (p 0.002), between the observed and the self-assessed height, but otherwise revealed good self-assessment of their performed procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, the experienced cerclage surgeons showed a genuine insight into their surgical performance of a transvaginal cerclage. These results could warrant development of a procedural guidelines with objective measures, now reassured that surgeons are capable of self-assessing their procedures.

Impact of a virtual reality-based simulation training for shoulder dystocia on human and technical skills among caregivers: a randomized-controlled trial

This study analyzed the adherence to the modified Advanced Life Support in Obstetrics (ALSO) algorithm (HELP-RER) for handling shoulder dystocia (SD) using a virtual reality (VR) training modality. Secondary outcomes were improvements in the post-training diagnosis-to-delivery time, human skills factors (HuFSHI), and perceived task-load index (TLX). Prospective, case-control, single-blind, 1:1 randomized crossover study. Participants were shown a 360° VR video of SD management. The control group was briefed theoretically. Both groups underwent HuFSHI and HELP-RER score assessments at baseline and after the manikin-based training. The TLX questionnaire was then administered. After a washout phase of 12 weeks, we performed a crossover, and groups were switched. There were similar outcomes between groups during the first training session. However, after crossover, the control group yielded significantly higher HELP-RER scores [7 vs. 6.5; (p = 0.01)], with lower diagnosis-to-delivery-time [85.5 vs. 99 s; (p = 0.02)], and TLX scores [57 vs. 68; (p = 0.04)]. In the multivariable linear regression analysis, VR training was independently associated with improved HELP-RER scores (p = 0.003). The HuFSHI scores were comparable between groups. Our data demonstrated the feasibility of a VR simulation training of SD management for caregivers. Considering the drawbacks of common high-fidelity trainings, VR-based simulations offer new perspectives.

Cervical cerclage technique: what do experts actually achieve?

BACKGROUND

Cervical cerclage is a recognized intervention in the management of women at risk of preterm birth and midtrimester loss. The mechanism of action of cerclage is unclear, and the technique has been poorly researched.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate cerclage technique among experienced obstetricians, using a previously developed and evaluated cerclage simulator.

STUDY DESIGN

This prospective experimental simulation and observational study used identical simulators for 28 consultant obstetricians who were asked to perform their normal cerclage. Suture type, height, knot site, and free thread length were recorded. Using computed tomography, depth of bite and tension (by reduction in area of cervix) were calculated.

RESULTS

A total of 52 cervical cerclages were completed (Mersilene tape, n=20; monofilament suture, n=32). Mean suture height was 33 mm (standard deviation, 7.7 mm), greater with monofilament suture than with Mersilene tape, and associated with smaller needle size. Mean depth of bite and mean reduction of starting area did not differ by suture type. Seven procedures showed ≥1 suture bite that had entered the cervical canal once or more.

CONCLUSION

This study assessed cerclage technique of experienced obstetricians using simulators and computed tomography imaging, and demonstrated wide variation in technique; this may affect the efficacy of the procedure. Further work should establish optimal technique and consensus for training and clinical practice.