Cadaver-based hands-on course in cervical spine surgery: a prospective evaluation of surgical confidence and self-perceived autonomy

PURPOSE: Realistic off-patient training plays a crucial role in surgical education, particularly in complex and high-risk fields such as cervical spine surgery. To investigate effects of cadaver-based surgical education, this study investigates the educational value of a cadaver-based course in cervical spine surgery. METHODS: 24 participants completed a three-day cadaver-based training course covering anterior and posterior cervical spine approaches in March 2024 in Sweden. The course focused on anatomical dissection with supervised instrumentation. Participants completed pre-, post-course and 6-month follow-up questionnaires assessing prior experience, post-course satisfaction, and longitudinal changes in surgical confidence and clinical impact. Educational impact was analyzed based on Kirkpatrick's model for evaluating training programs. RESULTS: All respondents (n = 23/23, 100%) reported that the course met their expectations. At six-month follow-up, a considerable proportion of participants indicated increased surgical independence across all practiced procedures. The highest rates of perceived improvement (Kirkpatrick level 1 - reaction) in independent surgical performance were observed for anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) procedures (n = 15/19, 78.9%) and laminectomies (n = 13/19, 68.4%). Cadaveric hands-on training (n = 13/19, 68.4%) and expert guidance (n = 3/19, 15.8%) were indicated as the most valued aspects of the course. CONCLUSION: This study highlights the perceived impact (Kirkpatrick level 1 - reaction) of a three-day hands-on course in cervical spine surgery, demonstrating its effectiveness in improving surgical confidence and self-perceived autonomy among participants, contributing to an increased number of independently performed procedures. Overall, cadaver-based training on anatomical specimens represents a valuable addition to surgical education in the operating room for cervical spine surgery.