SimLife®: A New Dynamic Model for Head and Neck Surgical Oncology Simulation

Area of Science:

• Surgical simulation
• Medical education technology
• Head and neck oncology

Background:

• Surgical training requires realistic models for complex procedures.
• Head and neck surgical oncology involves delicate anatomical structures.
• Evaluating simulation fidelity is crucial for effective skill acquisition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the face, content, and construct validity of the SimLife® model.
• To determine the realism and effectiveness of SimLife® for head and neck surgical oncology simulation.
• To evaluate its potential role in surgical residency curricula.

Main Methods:

• Simulated lateral neck dissection and total laryngectomy procedures were performed on the SimLife® model.
• Face and content validity were assessed using participant questionnaires.
• Construct validity was evaluated through Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS) scores.
• Realism metrics included tissue consistency and vascular coloration.

Main Results:

• Participants reported high realism for tissue consistency (7.1±1.4) and vascular structures (arteries 7.3±1.9, veins 8.5±1.1).
• Vein consistency was rated highly (8.5±1.2).
• Senior surgeons achieved significantly higher OSATS scores (32.7±1.9) than residents (19.7±5.4) (P=.0022), indicating construct validity.

Conclusions:

• The SimLife® model provides a hyperrealistic simulation for head and neck surgical oncology.
• Its validated realism and ability to differentiate skill levels suggest it is suitable for surgical training.
• SimLife® has the potential to become an integral part of surgical residency programs for head and neck oncology.