Amniocentesis learning curve using a low-cost simulation model to teach maternal-fetal medicine fellows.

Objective: To describe the learning curve for amniocentesis among Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) fellows using a low-cost simulation model in Mexico.

Methods: Fourteen first- and second-year MFM fellows with no previous experience in amniocentesis participated in this single-center prospective study from March to June of 2019. The study was approved by the Institutional Review Board at the Instituto Nacional de Perinatologia and written informed consent was obtained from all participants. After an introductory course based on a standardized technique for amniocentesis, each fellow performed this procedure using a low-cost simulation model; experienced operators supervised the procedures. Learning curves were then created using cumulative sum analysis. Thresholds for acceptable and unacceptable failure rates were defined as 10% and 25%, respectively.

Results: Experienced MFM specialists evaluated 3675 procedures. On average, MFM fellows performed 263 ± 53 procedures. The mean number to achieve competence was 255 ± 53. The overall failure rate among the trainees was 16%.

Conclusion: We describe individual learning curves for amniocentesis among MFM fellows using a low-cost simulation model. This approach allows direct assessment of proficiency in amniocentesis before clinical practice.