The pilot study of a blended learning module using porcine tongue for surgical simulation of double-opposing Z-plasty

Purpose: Simulation course serves as an efficient supplement to the experiential learning inside the operation room in surgical residency programs. Furlow double-opposing Z-plasty (DOZ) remains an important and challenging surgical technique in cleft palate repair, but the simulation is currently limited. This study aims to develop a blended learning module with low-cost and easy-to-promote DOZ simulation.

Methods: Comparison among the common rodent experimental animals and the readily available porcine tongue was made to select the ideal animal for surgical simulation, with which a DOZ learning module was developed. Oral surgery residents were enrolled to attend the blended learning module. An after-session questionnaire and a quiz were distributed to the participants to collect their feedback of the course perceptions and to assess their learning outcomes.

Results: The porcine tongue had more advantages in simulating the human soft palate over the common experimental animals. The surgical procedure of DOZ could be well designed and simulated on the porcine tongue. The vast majority of the participant liked the learning module regarded it as beneficial for the comprehension if DOZ principles and procedures. With the help of the porcine tongue simulator, the blended learning module helped the participants grasp the designing principles of DOZ procedure and promote their associative learning.

Conclusions: The blended learning module incorporating the porcine tongue simulator can help oral surgery residents master the principles and procedures of DOZ palatoplasty.