Orthopedic Anesthesia Training: A Narrative Review on Program Development

Purpose of the Review: The increasing prevalence of orthopedic procedures, such as knee and hip replacements, underscores the critical need for comprehensive orthopedic anesthesia training within anesthesiology residency programs. This review aims to present a structured framework for the development of orthopedic anesthesia education, utilizing Kern’s Six-Step Approach. Recent Findings: The review highlights the multifaceted challenges in orthopedic anesthesia education, including the variability in patient demographics, the complexity of surgical procedures, and the need for multidisciplinary collaboration. Advances in educational strategies, such as simulation-based training, including the use of high-fidelity manikins, virtual reality, augmented reality, and cadaver-based workshops, have shown promise in enhancing the skills and confidence of anesthesiology residents. Furthermore, the integration of Entrustable Professional Activities and competency-based milestones into residency curricula is gaining traction globally. Summary: The structured development of orthopedic anesthesia training programs is essential to equip anesthesiology residents with the skills needed to address the complexities of modern orthopedic surgeries. By applying Kern’s Six-Step Approach, training programs can systematically identify educational needs, set clear goals and objectives, implement effective teaching strategies, and rigorously evaluate outcomes. Emphasizing simulation-based training, the review underscores the importance of continuous adaptation to technological advancements and educational innovations. A robust program evaluation is crucial for assessing the effectiveness of these programs and ensuring that residents are well-prepared to deliver high-quality anesthesia care in orthopedic settings.