Development of a novel esophageal stricture simulation.

Haycock AV., East JE., Swain D., Thomas-Gibson S.

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS: Esophageal stricture dilatation has a significant morbidity and mortality and training can be difficult to obtain. The aim of the study was to investigate the face validity of a novel stricture simulation and evaluate its utility for training in balloon-dilatation technique. METHODS: Single-use stricture simulations were used to adapt a mechanical model for use in esophageal stricture dilatation. Face validity was evaluated using a questionnaire survey following a 40-min hands-on training session. Performance improvement was evaluated as part of a randomized blinded controlled trial. RESULTS: Face validity was established, with all trainees and instructors rating it as good or excellent overall and as adequately realistic or better in appearance. About 74% found it fairly or very realistic to dilate and 91% found it fairly or very useful for learning balloon-dilatation technique. Significant improvements in performance compared with controls were found following use of the simulation in a training episode. CONCLUSIONS: The novel esophageal stricture simulation had good face validity and has been shown to improve performance when used for training in balloon-dilatation technique. Its use allows practice without risk to patients or the need for animal cadavers.

DOI

10.1007/s10620-009-0739-y

Type

Journal article

Journal

Dig Dis Sci

Publication Date

02/2010

Volume

55

Pages

321 - 327

Keywords

Catheterization, Education, Medical, Continuing, Endoscopy, Gastrointestinal, Esophageal Stenosis, Humans, Models, Biological, Reproducibility of Results

Permalink Original publication