Porcine model for tracheostomy training: evaluation of the content and construct validity

Tracheostomy is a key procedure that residents in Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, Head and Neck surgery must master as a fundamental component of their training. Swine is a potential model for tracheostomy training as it mimics human anatomy and provides realistic haptic feedback. The purpose of this study is to evaluate its content and construct validity in surgical tracheostomy training.

We carried out training sessions on dead swine with three groups of volunteers: young residents [postgraduate year (PGY)-1 to 3], experienced residents (PGY-4 to 6) and senior surgeons. Content validity was studied using questionnaires sent to senior surgeons. Construct validity was assessed by comparing the OSATS score on video analysis, between the three groups.

19 individuals participated in the training sessions. OSATS score were statistically different between groups (p < 0.05) with a mean score of 19 for young residents, 24.7 for experienced residents and 31.3 for senior surgeon, with a good inter-rater reliability (Pearson coefficient > 0.9). Experienced surgeons agreed that the model was a useful training tool, strongly agreed that it improved performance, and that it would be used to train their students.

The dead pig is a suitable model to train for human tracheotomy, with good content and construction validity.