Application of Neuronavigation Combined with Mind Map in External Ventricular Drainage Teaching for Neurosurgical Residents

Objective External ventricular drainage (EVD) is a core emergency procedure in neurosurgery, and proficiently mastering this technique is essential for neurosurgical residents during standardized training. This study aimed to explore the application value of a combined teaching model of neuronavigation and mind map in EVD training for neurosurgical residents and to provide empirical evidence to optimize the teaching paradigm of neurosurgical practical skills. Methods Eighty-four neurosurgical residents without prior clinical experience in EVD, who received standardized training at our hospital from March 2024 to February 2025, were enrolled as research subjects. They were randomly divided into three groups using a computer-generated random number table: the control group, the mind map (MM) group, and the neuronavigation+mind map (NN + MM) group, with 28 residents in each group. The control group adopted the conventional teaching method (theoretical lectures+video demonstrations+bedside observation). The MM group received mind map-assisted teaching on the basis of conventional teaching. The NN + MM group implemented a combined teaching model integrating neuronavigation-based simulated operation and mind map-driven knowledge system construction. After the completion of teaching, the teaching effect was comprehensively evaluated using four indicators: theoretical assessment (closed-book examination), operational skill assessment (simulated operation with time recording), clinical thinking scoring (case analysis), and teaching satisfaction questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 26.0 software, with P < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results The NN + MM group exhibited significantly higher scores in theoretical assessment (90.23 ± 3.86 vs. 83.15 ± 4.78 and 76.58 ± 5.92), operational skill assessment (91.57 ± 3.52 vs. 82.46 ± 4.35 and 74.38 ± 5.07), and clinical thinking assessment (89.64 ± 3.98 vs. 81.32 ± 4.26 and 73.62 ± 4.89), as well as a higher teaching satisfaction rate (96.43% vs. 85.71% and 67.86%), when compared with the MM group and the control group (all P < 0.05). Additionally, all evaluation indicators of the MM group were significantly superior to those of the control group (all P < 0.05). Conclusion The combined teaching model of neuronavigation and mind map can significantly enhance neurosurgical residents' mastery of theoretical knowledge, operational proficiency, and clinical thinking ability during EVD training. Compared with single mind map-assisted teaching and conventional teaching, this combined model yields better teaching outcomes and higher resident satisfaction. It serves as an effective optimized strategy for EVD teaching in neurosurgical residency training. Its application is expected to provide strong support for cultivating high-quality neurosurgical professionals. Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR); ChiCTR2500098765; Registered on 15 March 2025; Retrospectively registered.