Construct Validity of a Large Loop Excision of the Transformation Zone (LLETZ) Training Model

Overview

In a prospective case-control study, 140 medical students (,novices') and 10 Senior gynecologists (,experts') will perform a Large Loop Excision of the Transformation Zone (LLETZ) on a Training model afte having undergone a Video Training session. Their LLETZ-Performance will be assessed using an Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS) protocol designed for judging the surgical proficiency when performing a LLETZ. Using metrical and non-metrical data points, construct validity of the LLETZ training model to distinguish between experts and novices will be assessed. Secondary endpoints are differences in OSATS scores within the group of novices based on gender and handyness, as well as satisfaction of the novices with the learning experience.

In a prospective case-control study, 140 medical students (,novices') and 10 Senior gynecologists (,experts') will be included. All participants undergo a video training with demonstration of the LLETZ procedure on a training model using a sausage as previously described (Hefler et al. 2014). After the Video Training, the LLETZ procedure will be performed by the study probands and their performance will be assessed using an Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS) protocol with 23 consecutive items. The exact time Frame for the assessment of the Primary outcome is within 1 hour after the Video Training. Using metrical and non-metrical items, the construct validity of the LLETZ training model to distinguish between experts and novices will be assessed. The study hypothesis is that the LLETZ Training model as used in this study has construct validity and is therefore a valid Instrument to discriminate between experts and novices. Secondary endpoints are differences in OSATS scores within the group of novices based on gender and handyness, as well as satisfaction of the novices with the learning experience.