Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak Repair Simulation Model: Face, Content, and Construct Validation

Cerebrospinal fluid leak (CSFL) repair simulation models are scarce; however, these models are valuable tools for skull base reconstruction surgery training.

This study aims to assess the face, content, and construct validity of a CSFL repair simulation model.

Eight novices (residents- PGY3) and eight experts have performed skull base reconstruction in multiple sites in twelve human cadaveric heads in simulated surgical environment. The experts completed a post-study 21-item questionnaire to assess the face and content validity. The performances of the participants were recorded and scored by two independent investigators who were blinded to the participant's level. Global Rating Scale of Operative Performance (GRSOP) and a Specific Skull Base Reconstruction Checklist (SBRC) were used to score the performances.

The responses from the expert group for the 21-item questionnaire were high for all items (4.13-4.88 out of 5). The internal consistency reliability of the questionnaire and the intraclass correlation, which was derived by Cronbach's Alpha, were 0.913 and 0.941 respectively. Differences in construct validity between the two groups were statistically significant for both the GRSOP and SBRS (P-value < 0.001).

We demonstrated the face, content, and construct validity of the CSFL repair simulation model, which facilitates the acquisition of technical skills necessary for skull base reconstruction surgery. The model includes realistic features that make it useful in educational courses.