Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 4, 2026
Utilizing a 3D Printed Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication Model to Shorten a Resident's Learning Curve
Published on: August 15, 2025
A Validated Orthopaedic Surgical Simulation Model for Training and Evaluation of Basic Arthroscopic Skills
Ryan P Coughlin1, Thierry Pauyo1, J Carl Sutton1
1Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Montreal General Hospital, McGill University Health Centre, 1650 Cedar Avenue Room B5 159.6, Montreal, Quebec H3G 1A4, Canada. E-mail address for R.P. Coughlin: ryan.coughlin@mail.mcgill.ca. E-mail address for T. Pauyo: thierry.pauyo@mail.mcgill.ca. E-mail address for J.C. Sutton: joseph.sutton@mail.mcgill.ca.
This study developed a validated arthroscopic skills simulation model for orthopaedic residents. The inexpensive and reliable model demonstrated construct validity, showing improved performance with increased training levels.
Area of Science:
- Orthopaedic Surgery
- Medical Education
- Surgical Simulation
Background:
- Lack of accessible, validated educational models for basic arthroscopic skills in orthopaedic residency.
- Need for a standardized method to evaluate and teach fundamental arthroscopic techniques.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and validate a surgical simulation model for basic arthroscopic skills.
- To demonstrate construct validity by correlating performance with training level.
- To assess the inter-rater and intra-rater reliability of the simulation model.
Main Methods:
- Prospective recruitment of 49 participants across four training levels (students to surgeons).
- Performance evaluation on six basic arthroscopic tasks using a box model.
- Scoring based on task completion time and technical error deductions.
Main Results:
- Significant differences in mean total global scores across all training groups (p < 0.001).
- Confirmed construct validity with significant performance improvements between all training groups (p < 0.05).
- High inter-rater and intra-rater reliability (ICC = 0.99).
Conclusions:
- A valid and reliable arthroscopic skills simulation model was successfully developed.
- The model is inexpensive and suitable for implementation in orthopaedic residency programs.
- This simulation tool can enhance the teaching and evaluation of basic arthroscopic proficiency.
