Development of a novel esophageal stricture simulation.
OBJECTIVE
Esophageal stricture dilatation has a significant morbidity and mortality and training can be difficult to obtain. The aim of the study was to investigate the face validity of a novel stricture simulation and evaluate its utility for training in balloon-dilatation technique.


METHODS
Single-use stricture simulations were used to adapt a mechanical model for use in esophageal stricture dilatation. Face validity was evaluated using a questionnaire survey following a 40-min hands-on training session. Performance improvement was evaluated as part of a randomized blinded controlled trial.


RESULTS
Face validity was established, with all trainees and instructors rating it as good or excellent overall and as adequately realistic or better in appearance. About 74% found it fairly or very realistic to dilate and 91% found it fairly or very useful for learning balloon-dilatation technique. Significant improvements in performance compared with controls were found following use of the simulation in a training episode.


CONCLUSIONS
The novel esophageal stricture simulation had good face validity and has been shown to improve performance when used for training in balloon-dilatation technique. Its use allows practice without risk to patients or the need for animal cadavers.
Haycock
Adam V
AV
Wolfson Unit for Endoscopy, St Mark's Hospital, Imperial College London, Watford Road, Harrow, Middlesex HA1 3UJ, UK. ahaycock@imperial.ac.uk
East
James E
JE
Swain
David
D
Thomas-Gibson
Siwan
S
D002404:Catheterization / Q000295:instrumentation*; D004502:Education, Medical, Continuing / Q000379:methods*; D016099:Endoscopy, Gastrointestinal / Q000379:methods*; D004940:Esophageal Stenosis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D008954:Models, Biological; D015203:Reproducibility of Results