Work

Educational impact of a cost-efficient burns excision and skin grafting porcine simulation model

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Burns education is underrepresented in UK undergraduate and early postgraduate medical training, despite being a core emergency presentation. This limits exposure to essential principles and skills. Porcine skin is anatomically similar to human tissue and cost-efficient, offering a valuable tool. This study evaluates the educational impact of a low-cost burns excision and skin-grafting porcine-based simulation model. METHODS: A prospective cohort study was conducted through a workshop comprising a lecture on burns followed by hands-on practice using porcine models. Participants completed pre- and post-workshop surveys, including multiple choice questions and evaluated self-rated confidence and perceptions using five-point Likert scales. Technical skills were assessed using supervisor-rated Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS). Statistical analysis utilised Wilcoxon signed-rank and McNemar's Tests. RESULTS: Thirty participants (28 medical students and two resident doctors) with no prior experience in burns management or grafting partook in the workshop. Theoretical knowledge significantly improved from 1.8 ± 0.7 to 3.9 ± 0.9 (p < 0.01), and surgical skills increased from 1.6 ± 0.7 to 3.6 ± 1.0 (p < 0.01). OSATS scoring showed significant improvements across all domains (p < 0.01). Knowledge-based assessments improved significantly in graft layers, total body surface area (TBSA), and viability assessment (p < 0.01). Participants rated the workshop's effectiveness score at 4.6 ± 0.7 and recommendation likelihood at 4.3 ± 0.5. CONCLUSIONS: The model significantly improves knowledge, confidence, and technical skills in burns management and grafting.

Source: Burns

DOI: 10.1016/j.burns.2025.107836