Development of a continuously perfused ex vivo kidney training model for laparoscopic partial nephrectomy: validity...

Area of Science:

• Surgical Education
• Medical Simulation
• Urology

Background:

• Suture hemostasis is critical for laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN).
• Existing training models may not adequately simulate bleeding scenarios.
• A need exists for advanced simulation tools in LPN training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a continuously perfused training model (CPTM) for LPN.
• To assess the efficacy of the CPTM in simulating high-level bleeding.
• To compare the training effectiveness of the CPTM against a dry box training model (DBTM).

Main Methods:

• CPTM constructed using porcine kidneys with perfused gelatin to simulate bleeding.
• 29 participants (novice, intermediate, expert) evaluated the model.
• Novices trained on CPTM or DBTM, assessed using Messick's framework criteria.

Main Results:

• Experts and intermediates provided positive feedback on the CPTM's content.
• Significant differences in skill acquisition were observed across experience levels (P<0.05).
• CPTM training significantly improved novice LPN skills, surpassing DBTM efficacy (P<0.05).
• Novice performance after CPTM training matched initial expert performance.

Conclusions:

• The CPTM provides a realistic simulation of bleeding and tissue texture for LPN skill acquisition.
• At least 12 training rounds on the CPTM are recommended for novice LPN proficiency.