Background: It is essential to evaluate the functionality of surgical simulation models, in order to determine whether they perform as intended. In this study, we assessed the use of a simulated laparotomy incision and closure-training model by collating validity evidence to determine its utility as well as pre and post-test interval data.
Method: This was a quantitative study design, informed by Messick's unified validity framework. In total, 93 participants (surgical trainees = 80, experts = 13) participated in this study. Evaluation of content validity and the models' relationships with other variables was conducted, along with a pre and post-test confidence assessment.
Results: The model was deemed realistic and useful as a teaching tool, providing strong content validity evidence. In assessment of relationships with other variables, the expert group out-performed the novice group conclusively. Pre and post-test evaluation reported a statistically significant increase in confidence levels.
Conclusion: We present strong validity evidence of a novel laparotomy incision and closure simulation-training model.
Keywords: Abdominal surgery; Laparotomy; Patient safety; Simulation; Surgical training.
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