Development and Validation of a Novel Surgical Simulation for Parotidectomy and Facial Nerve Dissection

Abstract

We present the development and validation of a low-cost novel model for training of parotid surgery. The model consists of a 3-dimensionally printed skeleton, silicone-based soft tissue, and facial nerve replicated with copper wire, circuited to indicate contact with instruments. The face validity of the simulator was evaluated with a 21-item 5-point Likert survey. Content validity was evaluated through a survey completed by the trainees after their first live parotidectomy following the simulation. Twelve residents and 6 faculty completed the simulated procedure of superficial parotidectomy after watching a video demonstration. Completion of 16 surgical steps evaluated by this model was graded for each participant. The mean ± SD total assessment score for faculty was 15.83 ± 0.41, as compared with 13.33 ± 2.06 for residents ( P = .0081). The simulator as a training tool was well received by both faculty and residents (5 vs 4, P = .0206). Participants strongly agreed that junior residents would benefits from use of the model.