Abstract
BACKGROUND: While video-based instruction has been employed to teach a range of surgical skills, most videos rely on modular demonstrations, which restrict students' comprehension of human tissue structures and their control over intricate procedural details. METHODS: This study described the development, implementation, evaluation, and results of a novel video curriculum based on modular demonstrations combined with animated simulations. Participants were randomly assigned to three groups using a simple lottery-based randomization method, and the efficacy of this novel curriculum was established through pre-and post-teaching outcome analyses. RESULTS: Compared to traditional education and modular-video groups, the combination of modules and animations significantly boosted post-course scores for all suturing techniques except Cushing (CS), Connell (C), and Purse String Sutures (PSS). CONCLUSIONS: The video approach that merges modules with animation proves effective in teaching suturing techniques without faculty intervention. Compared with modular-based video, the addition of animated simulation video has certain advantages in distance education.