Construct validity of a simulator for myringotomy with ventilation tube insertion.
OBJECTIVE
To establish construct validity of an anatomic model as a simulator for myringotomy with ventilation tube insertion and to assess its subjective appeal.


METHODS
Cross-sectional, repeated-measures comparative evaluation of simulator.


METHODS
University academic otolaryngology residency program.


METHODS
Using an anatomic model of the human auricle, ear canal, eardrum, and middle ear space, 18 otolaryngologists of various levels of training performed 10 timed procedures: myringotomy with ventilation tube insertion. Errors were recorded, and participants reported the quality of their experience.


RESULTS
Both time-to-completion and errors per trial discriminated novices from non-novice participants; novices (02:23, 95% confidence interval [CI], 01:42-03:04) were 3.6 times slower than non-novices (00:39, 95% CI, 00:35-00:43) and 6.5 times more error prone (novices 2.16 errors/trial, 95% CI, 1.68-2.64; non-novices 0.33 errors/trial, 95% CI, 0.21-0.45). Errors were strongly correlated with prior surgical experience. All participants required more time to complete the first trial, and their performance stabilized thereafter. Overall, the simulation was perceived as a valuable experience.


CONCLUSIONS
Our model is a valid platform for simulating myringotomy with ventilation tube insertion. The model discriminates novices from non-novices, has a learning curve, and is perceived to be a valuable and realistic teaching tool by users.
Volsky
Peter G
PG
University of Virginia School of Medicine, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA 22908-0713, USA.
Hughley
Brian B
BB
Peirce
Shayn M
SM
Kesser
Bradley W
BW
D006801:Humans; D008876:Middle Ear Ventilation / Q000379:methods; D008953:Models, Anatomic; D010036:Otolaryngology / Q000193:education; D013664:Teaching Materials; D014432:Tympanic Membrane / Q000601:surgery*