Assessment of competence in antegrade intramedullary nail osteosynthesis of femoral shaft fractures: A global Delphi consensus study.

Abstract

Antegrade intramedullary nailing of femoral shaft fractures (FSF) is a core competency in orthopedic surgery. However, trainees' skills acquisition is hindered due to reduced exposure to the procedure. Competency-based medical education (CBME) and simulation-based training (SBT) offer an alternative to traditional time-based residency models; however, their implementation in FSF fixation requires assessment tools supported by validity evidence. This study aimed to use the Delphi method to establish consensus regarding assessment parameters for antegrade FSF nailing. A modified Delphi study was conducted with a global panel of AO trauma faculty educators. In round 1, panelists proposed key technical skills and common errors during FSF fixation. Round 2 involved rating parameter importance on a 5-point Likert-like scale. In Round 3, specific score ranges were determined for a specific fracture model; these results are not presented in this study. In the final round, each parameter was assigned a weight from 1 to 10. Pearson's correlation coefficient was calculated between round 2 and the final round. Of 98 panelists included, 87 actively participated. Round 1 yielded 37 parameters. Consensus was reached for 34 after round 2. The mean importance rating in round 2 was 4.04 (SD 0.34), and the mean weight rating in the final round was 8.56 (SD 0.62). A strong correlation was found between importance and weight ratings (r = 0.94, p < 0.001). The final 34 parameters cover the entire fixation process, with 2 relating to fracture reduction, 6 to guidewire placement and entry point, 4 to reaming, 3 to nail choice, 6 to nail placement, 9 to interlocking, and 4 to the end of the procedure. This study defined 34 expert-derived parameters for intramedullary FSF fixation. They are well-suited for implementation in CBME programs and simulators, ensuring content validity and supporting structured skills training.