Construct validity of the LapSim laparoscopic surgical simulator

To link to full-text access for this article, visit this link: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.amjsurg.2005.10.018 Byline: Derek T. Woodrum (a), Pamela B. Andreatta (b), Rajani K. Yellamanchilli (b), Lauren Feryus (a), Paul G. Gauger (a)(b), Rebecca M. Minter (a)(b) Keywords: LapSim TM; Laparoscopy; Surgical education; Virtual reality; Laparoscopic simulator; simulation; Construct validity Abstract: Computer-aided simulators may increase the safety and efficiency of training in laparoscopic surgery. Before implementation of the Immersion LapSim (Gaithersburg, MD) simulator in our training curriculum, we wished to determine its construct validity (ie, whether the simulator could differentiate laparoscopic novices from trainees with greater experience). Author Affiliation: (a) Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, 1500 E. Medical Center Drive, 2920 Taubman Center, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-0331, USA (b) Department of Medical Education, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA Article History: Received 7 April 2005; Revised 9 October 2005 Article Note: (footnote) Supported in part by a research grant from United States Surgical (Norwalk, CT) and by the Association for Surgical Education Foundation's Center for Excellence in Surgical Education and Research (Springfield, IL).