“Top Gun” Competition: Motivation and Practice Narrows the Technical Skill Gap Among New Cardiothoracic Surgery Residents [1]
This multicenter study analyzes the utility of a "Top Gun" competition in promoting simulator use and improving technical skills among 1st-year CT Surgery residents. A coronary anastomosis simulation module was sent to most 1st-year residents in the U.S. Fifteen residents submitted baseline and final videos for evaluation. Most residents improved their technical skills as rated by faculty. The highest 5 scores were invited to participate in a live "Top Gun" competition at the AATS meeting. Clearly, simulator use will be a useful adjunct for training CT surgery residents. Unfortunately, resident engagement has not always met expectations. Will the introduction of a competitive environment--the "Top Gun" battle--serve to engage residents further?