Simulated learning is increasingly prevalent in many surgical training programs as medical education moves towards competency based curricula. In orthopaedic surgery, developmental dysplasia of the hip is a commonly treated diagnosis where the standard of care in patients less than six months of age is an orthotic device such as the Pavlik Harness. However, despite widespread use of the Pavlik Harness and the potential complications that may arise from inappropriate application, no formal educational methods exist.

A video and model based simulated learning module for Pavlik Harness application was developed. Two novice groups (residents and allied health professionals) were exposed to the module and at pre-intervention, post-intervention and retention testing were evaluated on their ability to apply a Pavlik Harness to the model. Evaluations were completed using a previously validated Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skill (OSATS) and a Global Rating Scale (GRS) specific to Pavlik Harness application. A control group who did not undergo the module was also evaluated at two time points to determine if exposure to the Pavlik Harness alone would affect ability. All groups were compared to a group of clinical experts who were used as a competency benchmark. Statistical analysis of skill acquisition and retention was conducted using t-tests and ANOVA.

Exposure to the learning module improved resident and allied health professionals' competency in applying a Pavlik Harness (p<0.05) to the level of expert clinicians and this level of competency was retained one month after exposure to the module. Control subjects who were not exposed to the module did not improve nor did they achieve competency.

The simulated learning module has been shown to be an effective tool for teaching the application of a Pavlik Harness and learners demonstrated retainable skills post intervention. This learning module will form the cornerstone of formal teaching for Pavlik Harness application in developmental dysplasia of the hip.