Presentation detailing the results from a study done with preclinical medical students and an optional simulation-based course with respect to the impact such a course may have on technical skills and interest in procedurally-based specialties.

This study revealed that simulation, as a teaching tool, not only increases medical knowledge about simulation (while still early in training), but also facilitated an envrionment in which interaction and discussion was high among faculty, trainees, and students. Furthermore, the study suggests that simulation-based courses can help identify and encourage interest in procedurally-based specialties such as vascular surgery.