Distance Learning in Surgical Education

BACKGROUND: Medical education has traditionally relied on in-person-based curriculums in medical school and residency . However, due to the COVID19 pandemic, medical schools and residency programs have been forced to rapidly transition to virtual platforms for learning. Surgical education poses a particular challenge, as virtual platforms cannot adequately replace hands-on learning of surgical skills. In this review, we will discuss the various ways in which virtual learning has been employed in surgical education and how it may be used to enhance learning of medical students and residents in the future. METHODS: We conducted a comprehensive literature search to identify articles published regarding medical school and surgical residency curriculum changes after COVID19. RESULTS: Over the past year, several surgery departments have piloted programs using virtual learning modules, live online lectures and training workshops, and remote streaming into the OR to supplement more traditional in-person learning. Overall, these programs have received positive feedback from participating medical students and residents, suggesting that virtual and online tools may be helpful in supplementing surgical education. However, several programs also noted the possibility for significant disparities in learning due to variable access to internet and availability of newer technologies. CONCLUSION: Going forward, distance learning will play an important role in surgical education to further enhance learning of medical students and residents in a field with rapid technological advancements.