Retention of suturing and knot-tying skills in senior medical students after proficiency-based training: Results of a prospective, randomized trial.

Purpose We evaluated suturing skills performance and retention in senior medical students (MS4) at the beginning of their fourth year and 7 months later. Methods MS4 students entering a surgery specialty were randomized to a proficiency-based suturing/knot-tying curriculum at the beginning of fourth year (Intervention, n = 11) versus no training (Control, n = 10). Time and technical proficiency (TP, proficiency ≥3) were assessed at baseline and 7 months. Performance was compared with past “Boot-Camp” MS4, categorical PGY-1 interns and PGY-2 residents. Data are mean ± SD. Results At baseline, Intervention and Control MS4 had similar total task times (848 ± 199 vs 845 ± 209 seconds) and TP scores (1.8 ± 0.15 vs 1.8 ± 0.3). At 7 months, Intervention MS4 total task times were faster (549 ± 80 vs 719 ± 151 seconds, P P P Conclusion A proficiency-based suturing and knot-tying curriculum taught early in the fourth year results in improved MS4 performance compared with no training or a traditional “boot camp” program.