Our Summary

This research study is about the creation and validation of a new scoring system, called the Diagnostic Arthroscopy Skill Score (DASS), to evaluate a surgeon’s skill level in performing diagnostic knee arthroscopy using a simulator. Knee arthroscopy is a procedure that lets a doctor look inside the knee joint to diagnose and treat problems.

The DASS was developed by ten instructors from the AGA-Society for Arthroscopy and Joint Surgery. It has two parts: one focuses on a standard diagnostic knee arthroscopy, and the other evaluates manual dexterity, including the ability to use both hands and the accurate placement of instruments.

The researchers used a method called the Delphi method to ensure the scoring system was valid and useful. They recorded videos of 111 simulated diagnostic knee arthroscopies, and six trained instructors used the DASS to evaluate these videos.

The researchers then tested the scoring system’s validity, consistency, and reliability. They found that it was a reliable method for evaluating a surgeon’s skill. Experts scored significantly higher than less experienced surgeons. The scoring was consistent, and there was a high level of agreement between the different evaluators.

The results suggest that the DASS is a valid and reliable tool for assessing a surgeon’s performance in diagnostic knee arthroscopy using a simulator. This could help to ensure that surgeons have adequate training before they perform this procedure on actual patients.

FAQs

  1. What is the Diagnostic Arthroscopy Skill Score (DASS)?
  2. How was the DASS developed and tested for reliability and validity?
  3. Can the DASS be used to evaluate a surgeon’s skill in actual knee arthroscopy or only in simulated procedures?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about arthroscopy is to follow the post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure a successful recovery. This may include keeping the incision site clean and dry, taking prescribed pain medication as directed, attending physical therapy appointments, and avoiding activities that could put stress on the knee joint. By following these instructions, patients can help promote healing and prevent complications after arthroscopic surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for arthroscopy include those with knee pain, swelling, stiffness, or locking of the knee joint. Common conditions that may benefit from arthroscopy include meniscus tears, ligament injuries, cartilage damage, and loose bodies in the knee joint. Patients who have not responded to conservative treatments such as rest, physical therapy, and medication may be considered for arthroscopy to diagnose and treat their knee problems. Additionally, athletes or individuals with physically demanding jobs who require a quick recovery time may also be recommended for arthroscopy.

Timeline

Before arthroscopy:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms such as knee pain, swelling, and stiffness.
  2. Patient consults with a doctor who recommends arthroscopy as a diagnostic tool.
  3. Pre-operative tests and evaluations are conducted to prepare for the procedure.
  4. Patient receives information about the procedure, risks, and recovery process.

After arthroscopy:

  1. Patient undergoes the arthroscopy procedure under anesthesia.
  2. Surgeon uses the DASS scoring system to evaluate their skill level during the procedure.
  3. Post-operative care includes pain management, physical therapy, and follow-up appointments.
  4. Patient gradually resumes normal activities as they recover from the procedure.
  5. Patient may experience improved knee function and reduced symptoms following arthroscopy.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the purpose of the Diagnostic Arthroscopy Skill Score (DASS) and how does it evaluate a surgeon’s skill level in performing diagnostic knee arthroscopy?
  2. How was the DASS developed and validated by the researchers?
  3. How does the Delphi method ensure the validity and usefulness of the scoring system?
  4. What specific criteria does the DASS focus on when evaluating a surgeon’s skill in diagnostic knee arthroscopy?
  5. How do experienced surgeons differ in their DASS scores compared to less experienced surgeons?
  6. How reliable and consistent is the DASS scoring system in evaluating a surgeon’s performance?
  7. How can the DASS help to ensure that surgeons have adequate training before performing diagnostic knee arthroscopy on actual patients?
  8. Are there any limitations or potential drawbacks to using the DASS scoring system in clinical practice?
  9. How can patients benefit from knowing that their surgeon has been evaluated using the DASS scoring system before undergoing knee arthroscopy?
  10. Are there any other tools or methods that can be used to assess a surgeon’s skill in performing diagnostic knee arthroscopy?

Reference

Authors: Anetzberger H, Becker R, Eickhoff H, Seibert FJ, Döring B, Haasters F, Mohr M, Reppenhagen S. Journal: Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc. 2022 Jan;30(1):349-360. doi: 10.1007/s00167-021-06554-3. Epub 2021 Apr 29. PMID: 33914120