Videos improve knowledge retention of surgical anatomy

In otolaryngology, a new publication shows that an educational video improves anatomy learning and knowledge retention in the long term. This study conducted by the ENT team at Necker-Enfants Malades, APHP (Université Paris Cité) and led by Pr François Simon shows the importance of using video in surgical courses for residents.

An educational surgical video on a cadaveric subject (Ecole de chirurgie du Fer à Moulin, APHP) has been produced to improve teaching of anatomy of the middle ear. This bony cavity, which lies behind the eardrum, is highly complex because it has to be interpreted in three dimensions, and the usual 2D diagrams or drawings make retention difficult. Using an endoscope to film the inside of the cavity gives a three-dimensional rendering that makes it possible to understand the positioning of the anatomical landmarks in relation to each other.

Then, as explained on our website, the video was edited and overlays, arrows and narration were added to make the video as educational as possible by following the IVORY guidelines, to make otolaryngology videos more educational.

The publication Educational endoscopic videos improve teaching of middle ear anatomy, published in the European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology in April 2024, studies the benefit of the educational video in teaching middle ear anatomy to ENT residents in Paris, compared with traditional courses based on drawings. A questionnaire to assess anatomical knowledge was carried out immediately after the course and at a distance, and showed a significant benefit in both the short and long term, especially for more senior residents.