Top Gun—A Novel Simulation Program to Test the Skills of Pediatric Orthopaedic Trainees

Abstract

Although this “See one, Do one, Teach one” model of education has been utilized in North America over the last century, there is growing evidence/emphasis on surgical simulation as a means of improving medical education, optimizing clinical outcomes, and promoting patient safety. In 2012, at the International Pediatric Orthopaedic Symposium (IPOS®), Top Gun was introduced as a new pediatric orthopedic simulation contest designed to test fundamental skills related to pediatric orthopaedics and highlight POSNA’s commitment to simulation and surgical education. The focus of Top Gun was to use a surgical simulation program, initially designed by Donald S. Bae, MD, with a focus to improve task performance, maximize clinical outcomes, promote patient safety, and optimize orthopaedic training. This review will outline the important elements of Top Gun and provide a toolkit for others wishing to create their own version of TopGun.