Simulation Training in Cardiovascular Medicine—The Past, Present, and Future: An Updated Comprehensive Overview
Simulation Training in Cardiovascular Medicine—The Past, Present, and Future: An Updated Comprehensive Overview
Journal: Catheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions
Publication Date: June 8, 2025
Key Points:
1. Widespread Integration:
Simulation is now a foundational element in training across cardiovascular disciplines—including interventional cardiology, cardiac imaging, electrophysiology, and pericardiocentesis.
2. Historical Context:
The article provides a comprehensive review of simulation’s evolution, from its aviation origins to its present-day clinical application in medicine.
3. Proven Educational Benefits:
Simulation enhances procedural skill acquisition, improves crisis response, and contributes to patient safety—especially in high-stakes or low-frequency scenarios.
4. Current Challenges:
Limitations include inconsistent access to simulators, lack of standardization in training, and funding constraints—despite strong institutional support.
5. Actionable Recommendations:
The authors advocate for formal curriculum integration, structured simulation design, sustainable funding models, and standardized instructor training.
6. Expanding Roles of Simulation:
Beyond individual training, simulation is increasingly used in team-based exercises, quality improvement, and patient-specific procedural planning.
This article provides strong, up-to-date evidence supporting the inclusion of simulation in national cardiovascular training programs and offers practical guidance for implementation.