Mastery-Learning Based Arterial Access Simulation Training

Vascular access complications are one of the most common complications of left heart catheterization, which is typically taught via informal observation in the cardiac catheterization laboratory. As trends in arterial access have been shifting from using the transfemoral route to the transradial route, trainees have less exposure to transfemoral access. This is particularly problematic in an era where transcatheter valve therapies are increasing in use, which require larger bore sheaths and have higher vascular access complication rates. Therefore, current training in arterial access is decreasing, leaving trainees unprepared for higher risk procedures and potentially putting patients at unnecessary risk. Formal simulation training for arterial access is a likely solution to this unmet need in cardiology training. Since simulation training is known to decrease procedural complications and improve trainee confidence and knowledge, we propose a quality-driven study to develop and evaluate the efficacy of an arterial access simulator curriculum via the mastery-learning technique, with the aim of improving outcomes during coronary angiogram, improving trainee procedural performance, improving patient comfort, and improving trainee confidence.