Integrative Teaching in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Mohd Altaf Mir *
Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bathinda, 151001, India.
Rahul Kaushik
Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bathinda, 151001, India.
Taruna Singh
Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bathinda, 151001, India.
Labhanshi Aggarwal
Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bathinda, 151001, India.
Devender Kumar
Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bathinda, 151001, India.
Seerat Kular
Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bathinda, 151001, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Plastic surgery has undergone a remarkable evolution, expanding beyond traditional reconstructive techniques to include a wide spectrum of surgical and non-surgical procedures. The growing complexity of patient care and the heightened emphasis on holistic, patient-centred approaches have necessitated a re-evaluation of educational strategies in the field. Integrative teaching models are emerging as a response to these evolving demands, aiming to harmonise conventional surgical instruction with complementary therapies, interdisciplinary collaboration, and progressive pedagogical methods. This comprehensive review explores the principles, practices, benefits, and challenges of integrative teaching in plastic surgery. Emphasising structured curricula, interdisciplinary exposure, mind-body interventions, simulation-based training, and evidence-driven innovations, the review underscores how integrative teaching can cultivate technically proficient, empathetic, and adaptable plastic surgeons capable of meeting the multifaceted needs of modern patients. The chapter will provide an overview of integrative teaching to the residents and young teachers of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
Keywords: Integrative teaching, plastic surgery education, multidisciplinary training, complementary therapies, surgical skill development