Development of a Peroral Vocal Fold Injection Training System

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Medical Education
• Simulation Training

Background:

• Trainees often lack experience with awake peroral vocal fold (VF) injections due to skill demands and patient tolerance.
• Existing simulation models primarily focus on percutaneous approaches, leaving a gap for peroral injection training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and evaluate a low-cost, reproducible simulation model for teaching fundamental skills in awake peroral VF injections.
• To assess the efficacy, fidelity, and educational value of the simulation model for otolaryngology trainees.

Main Methods:

• A survey-based study was conducted at a single-center tertiary medical center.
• Medical students and otolaryngology residents (n=19) participated after the model's construction.
• Participants completed the Michigan Standard Simulation Experience Scale (MiSSES) before and after performing five injections using the model.

Main Results:

• Before simulation, 18 out of 19 participants reported low confidence in peroral VF injections.
• Post-simulation, participants found the model realistic and reported improved confidence and ability.
• The overall simulation experience received a high rating of 4.8/5.

Conclusions:

• The developed low-cost, reproducible model effectively enhanced trainee confidence and skill in peroral VF injections.
• This simulation model is a valuable educational tool for teaching basic in-office peroral VF injection techniques.
• It represents a significant addition to otolaryngology residency training curricula.