Validity of the virtual reality simulator in the training of transurethral resection of the prostate / 中华泌尿外科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To assess the face and construct validity of a full procedural transurethral prostate resection simulator (TURPSimTM) in the training of transurethral resection of the prostate. Methods Ten experienced and thirteen inexperienced urologists (TURP experience ≥ 30 and ≤ 3 respectively) were included for TURP training on TURPSimTM. Each participant filled out a questionnaire regarding their previous experience and opinion of the usefulness of the simulator before and after performing six full procedures at level-2 difficulty. Performance was evaluated between the two groups and pre- /post-training, including GRS and objective parameters recorded on the simulator. Results The experienced group had higher GRS scores (16.3±2.6 vs 12.9±4.0, P=0.024) and prostate resection rate [(94.6±2.8)% vs (89.8±4.4)%, P=0.006]. Less blood loss [(78 ml vs 115 ml, P=0.208) and less capsule resection rate [(27.6±5.4)% vs (29.1±6.2)%, P=0.558] were detected in the experienced group than in the inexperienced group with no significant differences. After training, GRS and coagulation precision increased (14.4±3.8 vs 20.0±3.4, P<0.001; 93% vs 100%, P=0.001) ,while capsule resection rate [(28.4±5.8)% vs (20.8±3.9)%, P<0.001), blood loss (86 ml vs 76 ml, P=0.039) and injury of sphincter (5.5±2.2 vs 3.2±1.7, P<0.001) decreased in both groups. Conclusions Proof of face and construct validity is shown for this full procedural simulator to simulate the skills necessary to perform TURP. The surgical skills of urologists may be enhanced after training on the simulator.