Design and Validation of a Molded Silicone Task Trainer for Simulating Peritonsillar Abscess Drainage

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Medical Simulation
• Surgical Education

Background:

• Peritonsillar abscess (PTA) drainage is a critical skill for otolaryngology trainees.
• Current training methods may lack realistic, accessible simulation tools.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and validate a low-cost, anatomically realistic simulation model for peritonsillar abscess drainage.
• To assess the educational value and realism of the simulation model for otolaryngology trainees.

Main Methods:

• A novel simulation model was developed by integrating a silicone oropharynx with a drainable abscess cavity into a dental task trainer.
• Thirty-eight otolaryngology trainees and faculty utilized the model for simulated PTA drainage and completed post-simulation surveys.

Main Results:

• The simulation model demonstrated high face validity, with participants rating its realism highly (mean ≥4/5).
• Internal consistency was strong (Cronbach's α = 0.85).
• Participants showed significant increases in procedural knowledge (mean increase: 1.17 points) and confidence (mean increase: 1.13 points).

Conclusions:

• The developed simulation model is a realistic, cost-effective, and reusable tool for training peritonsillar abscess drainage.
• This modular model provides a scalable solution for enhancing essential procedural skills in otolaryngology residency programs.