Training in clinical breast examination as part of a general surgery core curriculum

Background. Early detection of breast cancer relies on a multidisciplinary approach that includes patient breast self-examination, radiographic studie s, and clinical breast examination (CBE). This study was undertaken to asse ss the value of formal CBE instruction by the surgery department using soli cone breast models. Methods. Thirty students were randomized in their first week of junior surgical clerkship to undergo or forgo a one-hour CBE retra ining session. They were subsequently evaluated on technical competence and the ability to detect masses in an opaque silicone breast model. These ski lls were reassessed one month later. Results. The students who underwent th e teaching session performed significantly better than the control group in both the early (scores 1.23 vs 2.67, p < 0.05) and the late (scores 0.15 v s 2.14, p < 0.05) testing sessions. Conclusions. These data suggest signifi cant improvement in CBE in students receiving formalized instruction. Furth er evaluation is needed prior to incorporation of this technique into the s urgery core curriculum.