INTRODUCTIONS - Simulation-based training (SBT) is being increasingly used for novice trainees as a means of overcoming the early learning curve associated with new surgical skills. We designed a SBT flexible ureteroscopy (fURS) course using a novel inanimate training model (Cook Medical, Bloomington, IN; URS model).
We evaluated the course and validated this Cook URS model.
METHODS - A 2-week SBT fURS course was designed for junior level urology trainees at 2 Canadian universities. The curriculum included didactic lectures, hands-on training, independent training sessions with expert feedback, and use of the Cook URS part-task model. Baseline and post-course assessments of trainee fURS skills were conducted using a standardized test task (fURS with basket manipulation of a calyceal stone). Performances were video-recorded and reviewed by 2 blinded experts using a validated assessment device.
RESULTS - Fifteen residents (postgraduate years [PGY] 0-3) participated in the course. Of the participants, 80% rated the Cook URS model as realistic (mean = 4. 2/5) and 5 endourology experts rated it as useful as a training device (mean = 4. 9/5), providing both face and content validity. The mean overall performance scores, task completion times, and passing ratings correlated with trainee clinical fURS experience - demonstrating construct validity for the Cook URS model. The mean post-course task completion times (15. 76 vs. 9. 37 minutes, p = 0. 001) and overall performance scores (19. 20 vs. 25. 25, p = 0. 007) were significantly better than at baseline. Post-course performance was better in all domains assessed by the validated assessment device.
CONCLUSIONS - This study demonstrates that a SBT curriculum for fURS can lead to improved short-term technical skills among junior level urology residents. The Cook URS model demonstrated good face, content and construct validity.
Canadian Urological Association journal = Journal de l'Association des urologues du Canada. 0000 [Epub]
Udi Blankstein, Andrea G Lantz, R John D'A Honey, Kenneth T Pace, Michael Ordon, Jason Young Lee
Division of Urology, St Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON;, Department of Urology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS. , Division of Urology, St Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON;, Division of Urology, St Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON;, Division of Urology, St Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON;, Division of Urology, St Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON;