Suturing and psychosurgical skills simulators: an integrative review of the last ten years
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5327/prmj.916Keywords:
suture simulators, surgical training, psychosurgical skills, health simulation, medical educationAbstract
Objective: To analyze the effectiveness and applicability of suture simulators (physical and digital) in the development of psychosurgical skills, and their effects on technical performance, clinical safety, learning, and user perceptions. Methods: An integrative literature review, retrospective and documentary in nature, conducted in the following stages: definition of the guiding question, application of inclusion/exclusion criteria, search and selection of studies, evaluation, categorization, and interpretation of results. Searches were carried out in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, LILACS, SciELO, BVS, and BDTD databases, using specific descriptors. Results: A total of 122 studies were identified, of which 28 met the eligibility criteria and were analyzed. High-fidelity simulators demonstrated superior retention of surgical skills over time, particularly in contexts requiring high technical precision. Digital simulators, especially those using virtual or augmented reality, had a positive impact on procedural accuracy, error reduction, and increased patient safety. Regarding user perceptions, there was consensus on improvements in self-confidence, manual dexterity, and overall performance. Gaps remain in comparative studies between simulator types, cost-effectiveness analyses, and the development of nationally patented models or strategies for market integration. Conclusion: Suture simulators are effective tools for teaching and training psychosurgical skills, fostering both technical and emotional gains. However, interdisciplinary research is needed to assess cost-effectiveness, technological innovation, and the development of validated, accessible models, preferably with patent potential and large-scale application in health education.
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