Abstract

Local flaps are a widely used surgical tool for the repair of primary defects. Most of the training models have been made on flat structures; however, their application in non-uniform structures requires prior training. Objective: To evaluate the performance of medical students in the acquisition of local flap techniques in a simulated model of the scalp. Material and methods: Nonrandomized experimental study. We designed a simulation model of pig skin mounted on a human skull. The training program consisted of two sessions. Each participant was videotaped performing an advancement and a rotation f lap before and after the training. Then they trained the advancement and rotation flaps on the model. Student performance was evaluated according to OSATS guideline. Statistical analysis was performed with non-parametric statistics. Results: 21 participants were included. All participants significantly increased their OSATS scores when comparing the initial with the final evaluation both in advancement flap (15 [range 13-16] vs 23 [range 22-24] p < 0.001), and in rotation flap (15 [range 14-17] vs 24 [range 23-25] p < 0.001). Conclusion: The use of a model of local flaps is effective in developing basic skills of local f laps of rotation and advancement in medical students.