Abstract

Background: Significant modifications have occurred in patient management and medical teaching since the COVID-19 appeared. The need to minimize exposure to SARS-Cov2 has affected the surgical residency programs, with reduced clinical practice opportunities and also restricted access to simulation facilities. We aim to describe a technology-based methodology for remote surgical training, safe and effective, and particularly facilitating during critical pandemic times. Methods: Our faculty has multiple simulation programs with in-person feedback. Recently, we developed a web-based platform to enhance surgery training by connecting trainees to an online network of certified tutors. Experts provide remote, deferred and personalized feedback, and evaluations using the online platform. Results: Regarding laparoscopic skills, before the COVID-19 crisis, our remote-teaching network trained 166 surgery residents in the country, with 3200 videos uploaded, comprising over 13000-feedback reports, in a 12-month period. During the pandemic in our country, the system has remained active, including 24-new trainees, 240-sessions performed, and 711 feedbacks given. Orotracheal intubation, mechanical ventilation, prone positioning, and other COVID-19 related competencies were prioritized and taught remotely via our EdTech methodology to healthcare providers from all over the country. Expert faculty anesthesia, respiratory therapy, and nursing teachers are providing the needed feedback, safely from anywhere. Nearly 3700 feedbacks have been given to more than 600 active trainees in a 2- months period. Conclusion: The COVID-19 is boosting new educational technologies for safe patient care, and also safe training. This EdTech helps to keep on learning in an efficient manner, supporting trainees with hundreds of expert feedbacks every week.