Validation of a Low-Cost Sinus Surgery Task Trainer

Abstract

Objective: Assess the face, content, and construct validities of a low-cost sinus surgery task trainer in acquisition of skills for endoscopic sinus surgery.

Method: Participants performed nasal endoscopy and 5 specific tasks using this model. Face and content validities were assessed based on the attendings’ responses to a questionnaire evaluating the task trainer. Construct validity was determined by comparing novice to expert performance using a checklist and global rating scale.

Results: A total of 77 subjects, including attending otolaryngologists, otolaryngology residents at various levels of training, and medical students, participated in the study. On the questionnaire, 80% of evaluators rated the trainer as realistic and agreed that this model correlates with the essential skills needed for endoscopic sinus surgery; 90% felt this model provided adequate training and would increase resident competency, and 90% were interested in using the model to train residents. On the task trainer, experienced otolaryngologists and senior residents scored significantly higher than junior residents and medical students using the objective measures of global rating scale and checklist.

Conclusion: Our study demonstrates face, content, and construct validity of the low cost sinus surgery task trainer. This model has the potential to be a valuable tool in endoscopic sinus surgery training for otolaryngology residents.