[Preliminary validation of the Simulap(®) physical simulator and its assessment system for laparoscopic surgery]

Our aim is to assess the face and content validities of the physical simulator Simulap(®), as well as the construct validity of its assessment method.

Five novice surgeons (G1) and five experts (G2) performed seven basic tasks and one suturing exercise on Simulap(®), which were assessed through an exam based on mistakes and performance time. Face and content validations were carried out by novice surgeons and expert surgeons, respectively. Both validations consisted of a questionnaire graded on a five-point scale about the Simulap(®) and its tasks. Construct validity of the assessment system was determined by comparing the scores of both groups.

Surgeons rated the Simulap(®) simulator and its training program positively, obtaining an average score of 4±1.1 for G1 and of 4.9±0.6 for G2. G2 considered training on Simulap(®) very useful for the training of residents and surgeons, obtaining a maximum score of 5. G2 outperformed G1 in all task scores, with statistically significant differences in the eye-hand coordination (G1: 52.2±6.7 vs. G2: 39.6±6.5; P=.027), dissection (G1: 301.8±100.2 vs. G2: 150.8±66.7; P=.028) and suturing exercises (G1: 258.5±87.0 vs. G2: 108.4±20.2; P=.009).

The assessment method for Simulap(®) is able to distinguish different levels of experience in laparoscopic surgery. Furthermore, this simulator showed a great acceptance by surgeons for the learning of basic skills.