Simulation Training in Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery: A Scoping Review

OBJECTIVE: Simulation training provides a controlled environment for the development of surgical skills. The high case complexity of functional endoscopic sinus surgery makes simulation training particularly appropriate and important. This scoping review aims to synthesize the current literature regarding endoscopic sinus surgery simulation to determine best practices. DATA SOURCES: PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane. REVIEW METHODS: Databases were systematically searched for studies published between November 1998 and May 2025 that pertained to simulation training for endoscopic sinus surgery. Articles included in the final review were selected using the PRISMA protocol. Inclusion criteria included: English language, description of a simulation model used for training, and description of a training model for functional endoscopic sinus surgery. RESULTS: In the initial search, 298 studies were identified. A total of 45 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. The most popular simulation type was a task trainer, with the majority of those being 3D-printed models. Outcome measures varied substantially across studies, with speed and global technical performance most frequently reported, but fewer than half of the studies employed validated assessment tools. CONCLUSION: Based on cost, scalability, and demonstrated construct validity, 3D-printed task trainers currently represent the most widely adoptable platform for standardization in endoscopic sinus surgery simulation. Standardization of simulation training could lead to more comparable outcome data and the development of more appropriate goals and expectations for trainees at specific training levels. Improved simulation training could result in quicker, more efficient learning that benefits both educators and trainees.