Anna Blackburn, a third-year DVM student from Pateros, WA, is leveraging her summer research fellowship to enhance training for veterinary surgeons in arthroscopy, a critical minimally invasive technique used to treat common joint issues in dogs.
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Under the guidance of Dr. Bettina Darveshi at Washington State University, Blackburn's project aims to establish a structured, simulation-based arthroscopy curriculum that minimizes reliance on cadavers and live-animal training methods.
Her research investigates whether exposure to multiple simulation models improves skill development, transfer, and long-term retention compared to using a single model. Blackburn will oversee participant recruitment, conduct training sessions, and assess performance metrics such as accuracy, efficiency, and image quality. The results from this study are expected to directly influence the university's ongoing training program, with the aim of enhancing surgical proficiency while lowering patient risk.
Blackburn expressed that this project aligns with her career goals, as she intends to pursue board certification in small animal surgery, which necessitates both clinical skill and substantial research contributions. She aspires to use her findings to improve patient outcomes and help shape the future of surgical training.
“This project is especially meaningful to me, as its outcome may significantly inform my future training program,” Blackburn stated. “The skills and insights I gain will lay the groundwork for a career focused on advancing veterinary medicine through clinical excellence and scholarly pursuits.”