Algorithmic Approach in Cytopathology : A Mode of Training the New Residents

Abstract

Objectives: To compare the traditional teaching with algorithm or flowchart-based teaching method in cytology and to assess the performance of newly joined residents in cytopathology after training them with algorithm-based approach. Materials & Methods: The study included 20 newly joined residents who were divided into two groups I.e., group A and group B and was conducted in two different sets. In set 1, group A residents were trained with the algorithmic approach and group B residents by theoretical method for 10 different cytological cases of thyroid and breast. In set 2, group B residents were taught the algorithmic approach and group A residents by theoretical method for 10 different cytological cases of salivary gland and lymph node. The performance of the residents in both the sets was assessed and pre-test and post-test scores were given based on their ability to diagnose the lesions before and after the training. The feedback on the utility of algorithmic approach in cytopathology was received from the participated residents after the study. Results: The performance of the residents was compared using Mann Whitney U test of post-test scores and was found that in set 1, group A residents’ performance was greater than that of group B residents. Similarly for the set 2, the performance of group B residents was greater than group A residents. The performance of group A residents in set 2 was found to be better than their performance in set 1. Conclusion: The algorithm or flowchart-based teaching is a unique teaching method which enhances case solving skills and effective reasoning in the residents. Keywords: Algorithm based approach, Cytopathology, FNAC, Pathology resident training