Objective: We assessed the effectiveness and appropriateness of our original off-the-job training (Off JT) system using data acquired from recruited medical students and doctors. Materials and Methods: We presented our original homebuilt Off JT system, which is simple and inexpensive. In our unique system, we performed anastomosis at the bottom of a plastic pot, which mimics the actual open surgical procedure at a deep site. There were four evaluation points: (A) operating time, (B) performance of anastomosis by semi-automatically analyzing the image with the coefficient of variation (standard deviation/length) of the "bite" and the "pitch," (C) scoring of the total surgical skill evaluated by the trainers according to the Operative Performance Rating System (OPRS), and (D) the relationship of these three factors (A, B, and C). Results: The procedural time and coefficient of variation of the bite and pitch decreased and the OPRS score increased after training. There was a strong correlation between procedural time, anastomotic performance, and OPRS score. Conclusion: The effectiveness of our original homebuilt system was shown by reduced procedural time, improved anastomotic quality, and increased OPRS score.
Keywords: anastomosis; off-the-job training; simulation; suture; vascular surgeon.