Validation of a Simulation Tool for Periodontal Surgical Procedures

Objectives: The use of surgical simulation training (ST) in the medical field is known to enhance knowledge retention, skills and improve patient care. Touch Surgery (TS) is an interactive ST that provides a realistic and detailed step-by-step guide for a procedure. The aim of this study was to validate TS as an additional method of teaching students surgical techniques.

Methods: Pending ethical approval, focus group sessions were conducted to obtain feedback from faculty and students about a newly created ST “anatomy for the maxillary sinus elevation procedure”. Focus group interviews, were conducted by the Principal Investigator and the Co-Investigator in order to collect face and content validity data. Study outcomes were assessed using a mixed methods approach, involving both quantitative and qualitative data collection. Data analysis was performed by a blinded examiner.

Results: 18 participants were part of this pilot study to validate a surgical simulation tool, through the focus group sessions. All participants found TS to be an effective additional method of teaching students surgical techniques required to perform SEP procedures. Majority stated that they would use TS to prepare for surgical procedures. 89% of the students believed it was advantageous and can be used as a supplement. The faculty focus group session had similar results, as 56% felt that TS brought advantages to their teaching methods.

Conclusions: Based on the feedback from this pilot study, content validity and face validity were achieved. The SEP simulation provides important anatomical guidance for one of the most challenging procedures in the field of dentistry: elevation of the maxillary sinus. Further studies are recommended to confirm knowledge retention and improved patient care.