Setting minimum standards for training in EUS and ERCP: results from a prospective multicenter study evaluating learning curves and competence among advanced endoscopy trainees

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2-7-2019

Publication Title

Gastrointestinal endoscopy

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Minimum EUS and ERCP volumes that should be offered per trainee in "high quality" advanced endoscopy training programs (AETPs) are not established. We aimed to define the number of procedures required by an "average" advanced endoscopy trainee (AET) to achieve competence in technical and cognitive EUS and ERCP tasks to help structure AETPs.

METHODS: ASGE-recognized AETPs were invited to participate; AETs were graded on every fifth EUS and ERCP examination using a validated tool. Grading for each skill was done using a 4-point scoring system and learning curves (LCs) using cumulative sum (CUSUM) analysis for overall, technical, and cognitive components of EUS and ERCP were shared with AETs and trainers quarterly. Generalized linear mixed effects models with a random intercept for each AET were used to generate aggregate LCs allowing us to use data from all AETs to estimate the average learning experience for trainees.

RESULTS: Among 62 invited AETPs, 37 AETs from 32 AETPs participated. The majority of AETs reported hands-on EUS (52%, median 20 cases) and ERCP (68%, median 50 cases) experience before starting an AETP. The median number of EUS and ERCPs performed/AET was 400 (range 200-750) and 361 (250-650), respectively. Overall, 2616 examinations were graded (EUS: 1277; ERCP-biliary: 1143; pancreatic: 196). The majority of graded EUS examinations were performed for pancreatobiliary indications (69.9%) and ERCP examinations for ASGE biliary grade of difficulty 1 (72.1%). The average AET achieved competence in core EUS and ERCP skills at approximately 225 and 250 cases, respectively. However, overall technical competence was achieved for Grade 2 ERCP at about 300 cases.

CONCLUSIONS: The thresholds provided for an average AET to achieve competence in EUS and ERCP may be used by ASGE and AETPs in establishing the minimal standards for case volume exposure for AETs during their training.

PubMed ID

30738985

ePublication

ePub ahead of print

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