Using Cognitive Task Analysis to train Orthopaedic Surgeons - Is it time to think differently? A systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Working time restraints; senior led care; and a reduction in ‘out of hours’ operating has resulted in less operating time for orthopaedic trainees in the United Kingdom. Therefore, there has been an attempt to overcome these challenges by implementing novel techniques. Cognitive Task Analysis (CTA) focuses on the mental steps required to complete complex procedures. It has been used in training athletes and in general surgery but is new to orthopaedic training. AIM: To undertake a systematic review to analyse if CTA is beneficial to train novice surgeons in common orthopaedic and trauma procedures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A systematic review was performed evaluating CTA in trauma and orthopaedic surgery on MEDLINE and EMBASE. Search terms used were: 'Cognitive task’, ‘mental rehearsal’ and ‘Orthop*'']. 33 studies were originally identified. Duplicate studies were excluded (11). Articles not relating to Orthopaedic surgery were excluded (15). The CTA research ranking scale was used to evaluate the impact of the studies included. RESULTS: 7 studies were identified as appropriate for inclusion. 264 participants. 178 M, 86F. All studies showed objective or subjective benefits from CTA in orthopaedic training when compared to traditional methods. The majority of the participants highlighted high subjective satisfaction with the use of the CTA tools and reported that they proved to be excellent adjuncts to the traditional apprenticeship model. CONCLUSION: CTA learning tools have demonstrated significant objective and subjective benefits in trauma and orthopaedic training. It is cost effective, easily accessible and allows repeated practice which is key in simulation training.