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Creation and initial assessment of a second-trimester uterine model
Sloane L York1, Sylwia Migas, Jennifer Haag
1From the Section of Family Planning and Contraception (S.L.Y., C.H.), Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Center for Education in Medicine (W.C.M.), and Robert R. McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science (S.M., J.H., Z.L., R.S.), Northwestern University, Chicago, IL.
Introduction:
Training for obstetrics and gynecology residents in second-trimester dilation and evacuation (D&E) procedures is extremely limited despite the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education mandating all residents to receive abortion training. Simulation-based training improves surgical competence, but no second-trimester uterine models exist. The purposes of this study were to create a realistic, low-cost model and to assess the prototype.
Methods:
A uterine model was created with 6 silicone cervixes of varying texture and dilations that are interchangeable. The uterus is neoprene and opens to allow for objects to be placed within it for extraction. At a national meeting, experienced D&E surgeons assessed the prototype by using the model and then completing a questionnaire.
Results:
Twenty-one expert surgeons completed the questionnaires. Participants rated the prototype as "useful" or "very useful" for teaching extraction skills and for training in general. Subjects agreed this represented a clinical scenario they were likely to encounter and the model allowed for practicing the necessary steps for performing D&Es. The model cost approximately $35 to fabricate.
Conclusions:
Expert surgeons believe that this model accurately and realistically replicates a second-trimester uterus and cervix. This prototype may be used in simulation environments to train obstetrics and gynecology residents.
