Abstract

Objectives
Syndactyly reconstruction is a technically demanding procedure that requires precise flap planning and dissection. However, traditional surgical training often lacks sufficient opportunities for repeated practice, especially in low-resource settings. This study aimed to introduce and evaluate a novel, low-cost, and easily replicable simulation model designed to improve surgical training in syndactyly reconstruction.
Methods
We developed the model by covering a commercially available nail-training hand with a latex glove, simulating a syndactyly in the third web space. This model was incorporated into a hands-on session at the Prof. Rıdvan Ege Basic Hand Surgery Course in February 2024. Participants (n=112) completed pre- and post-training self-assessments rating their practical knowledge of syndactyly surgery on a scale of 1 to 10. Subgroup analyses were conducted based on specialty and training level.
Results
Participants’ self-rated knowledge improved significantly from a mean of 3.46 ± 2.11 before training to 7.30 ± 1.78 after training (p < 0.001). Specializations (p = 0.773) and training levels (p = 0.100) revealed no significant differences in knowledge improvement.
Conclusion
This simple, low-cost model significantly enhanced participants' self-perceived knowledge of syndactyly reconstruction and was well received in a structured surgical training environment. While the assessment was based on self-reported scores, the model nonetheless provides a practical and scalable tool for surgical education, especially in settings with limited resources or case exposure. The results should be interpreted with caution, though, as they represent perceived knowledge rather than objectively measured surgical skill.

Key words: educational models; simulation training; surgical education; syndactyly