Evaluation off a cadaver workshop for education in regional anesthesia

Background. The aim of the present investigation was to survey former participants (n=869) of a cadaver workshop using a mail questionnaire to assess the demographic data and the impact of these courses on daily practice. Methods. The deadline for acceptance of return mail was 60 days. Descriptive statistics were employed for analysis of results. Results. The response rate was 36.7% and the course was judged to be recommendable by 98.2%. The average course attendant was board certified and had spent a mean time of 9 +/- 6 years in anesthesiology. The highest quality and degree of subsequent practicability in daily routine was attributed to peripheral nerve block training on cadavers. Of the course participants two-thirds performed regional anesthesia procedures more often following attendance. The majority of course attendants had to defray at least a part of the course fee themselves, and one-third was required to invest leisure time to attend. Conclusion. Attendance of a cadaver workshop increased knowledge of clinical anatomy and enhanced performance of regional anesthesia procedures. Courses of this format constitute a currently underestimated adjunct to contemporary regional anesthesia education.