An endoscopic training and assessment model for argon plasma coagulation.

PURPOSE: Argon plasma coagulation (APC) is a standard modality for the treatment of gastrointestinal bleeding. However, there are no metrics to assess technical proficiency. We aimed to determine if a Quick APC Training Test (QAPCTT) can improve performance and assess proficiency with this modality.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Endoscopy trainees at various levels of training were asked to perform the QAPCTT with an in vivo model before and after an APC curriculum with didactic lectures and additional hands-on experience. As trainees performed the test, endoscopic supervisors recorded the time required to complete each task as well as the number of inadvertent mucosal touchdowns. Each partipant was assigned a technical proficiency score by supervising endoscopists.

RESULTS: Fourteen adult gastroenterology fellows participated in the course. 100% of fellows were comfortable with generator settings and APC equipment after the course compared to only 21% (p < 0.001) on the pre-test questionnaire. Those deemed technically proficient on the post-course QAPCTT required significantly less time for the task of making a square (100 s vs. 215 s; p = 0.006) and had significantly fewer inadvertent mucosal touchdowns (5 vs. 19; p = 0.0017).

CONCLUSIONS: Dedicated APC training is required to achieve competence with this modality. A structured curriculum improves knowledge about the technique and hands-on training is important for achieving technical proficiency. The QAPCTT appears improve APC technique and may readily identify trainees in need of additional APC experience to gain proficiency.