Validity of a Novel Chicken and Porcine Model for Laparoscopic Neobladder Reconstruction

Simulation-based training in laparoscopic urology is essential, as these surgeries require a skill set different from routine urologic procedures. We aim to describe and validate the chicken and porcine intestine model for laparoscopic neobladder reconstruction. Prospective observational study was conducted at our institute. Twenty novice and 20 trained laparoscopic surgeons were included in the study. The relevant chicken anatomy and surgical steps were described to all the surgeons. The surgeons were asked to fill a nine-point questionnaire after completing the exercise comprising bowel organization, ability to do urethroneovesical anastomosis, suturing time, suturing similarity, quality of suturing, tissue feel, integrity of anastomosis, realism, and usefulness of model after finishing the procedure, and score it on a scale of 1-5. Time taken to perform the entire exercise was noted in addition. An independent expert observer retrospectively rated the urethroneovesical anastomosis on a scale of 1-5. All the participants in the study gave a mean score of 3.5 or more to all the questions asked in the questionnaire. Both the groups rated the usefulness of the model highly with a mean score of 4.6 and 4.45, respectively. The mean score of the questionnaire was 35.9 and 36, respectively, for both the groups. The quality of urethroneovesical anastomosis as observed by an expert was better in the expert group (p = 0.001). The chicken and porcine model for laparoscopic neobladder reconstruction is a useful and effective training tool. This model has face, content, and construct validity to be used as a teaching and training tool in laparoscopic urology.