Purpose: To design and validate a surgical model for anterior colporrhaphy.
Background: Simulation-Based learning is beneficial. To date no simulation model exist for anterior colporrhaphy.
Methods: The model was constructed with nylon tights, PVC tube, polyester battening, and densified polyester padding, costing $43.92. Participants were divided into two groups: “trainees” and “experts”. “Trainees” were Ob/Gyn residents, subdivided into two groups by experience. The “Experts” group comprised Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery (FPMRS) fellows and faculty. Performance of the procedure was recorded then evaluated by a blinded reviewer using the Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS) (total 35) and a procedure-specific assessment, which was based on the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommendations for resident milestone evaluation (ARPA) (total 25). ANOVA was used to compare scores between the groups.
Results: The study included 13 novice 18 advanced trainees and 6 experts. The “Experts” group scored significantly higher than the “Trainees”. The mean (±SD) OSATS score for “Experts” was 32.30 (±6.06), versus novice and advanced “Trainees”: 17.15 (±5.84) and 21.11 (±5.61), respectively (p=0.001). The mean “Experts’” score for the ARPA was 23.00 (±3.95), versus 10.62 (±4.70) and 14.33 (±4.73) for the novice and advanced “Trainees”, respectively (p< 0.001). Ninety-four percent of trainees reported the model to be “useful” or “very useful” in learning this procedure.
Discussions: This model is low cost, easily constructed, and reusable. Higher scores by experts demonstrates construct validity of this model. This valuable simulation tool allows trainees to practice and improve their technique in a risk-free environment prior to surgery.
Topics: CREOG & APGO Annual Meeting, 2020, Resident, Faculty, Residency Director, Patient Care, GME, Simulation, Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery,
Amanda O\'Meara, MD; University of Connecticut; Aparna Ramaseshan, MD; David O\'Sullivan, PhD; Elena Tunitsky-Bitton, MD
