The rising complexity of surgical procedures and the increasing demand for patient safety have made high-quality surgical training indispensable.

 

Simulated surgical training tools are emerging as a cornerstone in medical education, offering cost-effective, time-efficient, and life-saving solutions.

 

This article dives into the economic and practical advantages of these tools, with a special focus on the Miya Model™ by Miyazaki Enterprises.

 

The Financial Burden of Traditional Surgical Training

Traditional surgical training methods, such as cadaver-based practice and operating room (OR) exposure, come with significant costs.

 

The average cost of an OR minute in the U.S. is estimated at $15–$20 for hospitals and up to $62 for patients, making inefficient training a financial strain on healthcare systems (Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons).

 

Additionally, training residents in live OR settings can cost institutions nearly $50,000 over four years due to prolonged procedure times (National Library of Medicine).

 

Traditional surgical training methods often come with significant financial burdens for both institutions and students. These high costs can lead to limited access to hands-on surgical training, reduced exposure time, and other challenges that negatively impact the quality of a student’s learning experience.

 

Time and Logistical Challenges of Traditional Surgical Training:

Traditional surgical training methods impose significant time and logistical burdens on both institutions and trainees, creating a complex landscape for medical education. Consider the following challenges:

  1. Extended Training Duration: Surgical trainees typically undergo a rigorous five-year clinical training program in general surgery to qualify for board certification. This extended period often results in substantial financial strain and personal sacrifice for students. (American College of Surgeons)
  2. Geographic Constraints: Many students find themselves compelled to travel across state lines or to different institutions to access specialized training opportunities. This necessity not only adds financial pressure but also introduces logistical complications to their educational journey.
  3. Limited Operating Room Access: Securing adequate hands-on practice time in the operating room remains a persistent challenge. As a result, trainees often find themselves in more observational roles rather than actively participating in procedures, potentially slowing skill development. (American College of Surgeons)
  4. Lack of Repetitive Practice: The traditional model offers infrequent opportunities for repeated practice of specific procedures. This scarcity of repetition makes it challenging for trainees to develop the muscle memory and confidence crucial for mastering surgical skills.
  5. Inefficient Skill Development: While the current training model is the established standard, it may not represent the most efficient path for skill acquisition and refinement. The limited hands-on experience and repetition can lead to a slower progression of surgical competency. (American College of Surgeons)

In response to these challenges, the medical community is increasingly exploring competency-based training approaches and technological solutions such as simulation.

 

These innovative methods aim to address the limitations of traditional training, potentially reducing the overall duration of surgical education from the current seven to nine years while enhancing the quality and efficiency of skill development.

 

Simulated Training: An Effective Alternative to Traditional Training

Simulation-based training offers a solution that reduces costs while maintaining high educational standards. Here’s how:

  1. Reduced OR Time and Costs: Studies show that simulation-trained surgeons complete procedures more efficiently, cutting down OR time and associated anesthesia costs (National Library of Medicine).
  2. Lower Initial Investment Over Time: While the setup of a simulation training program may require some upfront costs, recurring costs are significantly lower compared to traditional methods, especially when compared to traditional training programs. 
  3. Minimized Risk of Complications: By allowing trainees to practice repeatedly in a controlled environment, simulation reduces surgical errors and complications, which can otherwise lead to extended hospital stays and additional costs.

 

The Miya Model™: Setting a New Standard

Miyazaki Enterprises’ Miya Model™ exemplifies cost-efficiency in simulated surgical training. Designed specifically for gynecological procedures, this model offers:

  • Realistic Anatomy: Its lifelike features include tactile skin, pressurized vascular systems, and replaceable cartridges, enabling trainees to practice complex procedures like vaginal hysterectomies with precision.
  • Repetition to Reduce Risk: Trainees can refine their skills through repetitive practice without risking patient safety or incurring high cadaver costs.
  • Time-Efficiency: Compared to cadaver-based training, the Miya Model significantly reduces preparation time while providing consistent quality.


As healthcare systems face mounting financial pressures, simulated surgical training tools like the Miya Model™ provide a sustainable path forward.

 

By reducing costs, improving outcomes, and enhancing surgeon readiness, these tools are not just an investment in education—they are an investment in better healthcare.

 

For more information on how the Miya Model™ is revolutionizing gynecological surgery training, visit our website or contact us for more information.