Objective: To assess resident satisfaction and knowledge after a hands-on Botulinum toxin (BoNT) simulation workshop (SW).

Background: Despite having an application for BoNT in almost every neurology sub-specialty, residents may not be aware of its diverse use in movement disorders. BoNT may be underutilized in practice due to misconceptions and lack of education in the myriad of indications. 

While BoNT SWs are available during national and international conferences, its utilization during residency training and impact on knowledge has never been described. Workshops during residency may improve technical skills and introduce the diversity of outpatient neurology, as residents have limited exposure to these fields. [1] We present our experience with a novel BoNT SW for residents.

Method: Over two years, we introduced BoNT SWs using electronic mannequins as part of didactics for Neurology residents. They included a movement disorders specialist-led presentation about BoNT, followed by a mentored hands-on workshop on medication preparation and injection technique for commonly targeted muscles for dystonia and spasticity. Satisfaction was assessed with a 5-point Likert scale. Knowledge was assessed with a pre-and post-workshop test and a supervised evaluation of injection technique.

Results: A total of 17 residents participated in the SWs over the course of 2 years. More than 83% of the residents strongly agreedthat they were satisfied with the workshop, would recommend it to others, and found the mannequins useful for injection technique. Residents learned an average of 7 new BoNT indications. Knowledge scores improved regarding dosing and timing (55% correct pre-test vs 90% correct post-test), patient selection and indication/contraindications (18% correct pre-test and 72% correct post-test). An average of 9/11 residents could correctly identify 8/10 muscles using the simulator.

Conclusion: Our project shows that BoNT SWs help neurology residents increase knowledge regarding indications, dosing, and patient selection. Simulation-based teaching achieved high satisfaction rates. Neurology residencies should consider this format as part of didactics. We hope this intervention can increase the number of neurologists in fields which practice BoNT, an increasing need in the community. [2] Whether simulation training translates into increased number of BoNT-trained subspeciality neurologists merits further investigation.

References: [1] Naley M, Elkind MSV. Outpatient training in neurology: history and future challenges. Neurology. 2006;66(1):E1-6.
[2] Sarva H, Patino GA, Rashid M, Owens JWM, Robbins MS, Sandrone S. The status of neurology fellowships in the United States: clinical needs, educational barriers, and future outlooks. BMC Med Educ. 2021;21(1):108.

« Back to 2022 International Congress

MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/botulinum-neurotoxin-simulation-workshop-impact-on-resident-satisfaction-and-knowledge/