LapAppendectomy4all: validation of a new methodology for laparoscopic appendectomy simulation and training

Appendectomy, whether open or minimally invasive (MIS) is one of the most frequent procedures performed by young residents. We designed and tested a new methodology and a new inexpensive silicone model for Laparoscopic Appendectomy (LA) simulation. This study aimed to assess their fidelity, usefulness and educational value in an introduction to laparoscopy course. The course was open to first-year general surgery residents. The group was divided in two and one of the groups watched a video of the procedure before the simulation. Individual performances were assessed directly on the models, using a specific assessment scale. Participants answered a questionnaire at the end of the course for evaluation. Thirty-five residents participated in this study. Execution, quality, and global performance were higher in the group that had more experience with the model. Thirty-two trainees (91%) answered the questionnaire. There was a strong agreement that the model was adequate for this type of course and face and content validity was considered high/very high. Participants strongly agreed that this model gives more confidence to perform a real LA and almost 97% (n = 31) considered they have learned solid foundations about LA. This study shows face, content and construct validation and also educational value for this new low-cost, laparoscopic appendectomy model. The integration of this model in an introduction to laparoscopy course showed good results in regard to an increase of confidence among first-year surgery residents. It can be a valuable tool for learning and training laparoscopic appendectomy.