Reperfused human cadaver as a new simulation model for colonoscopy: a pilot study

BACKGROUND: The reperfused human cadaver is a validated simulator for surgery. We aimed to use it as a colonoscopy simulator. METHODS: Novices, intermediates and skilled participants in gastrointestinal endoscopy were included. They performed one colonoscopy on a reperfused human cadaver and reaching rates, time, and length needed to reach anatomical landmarks were reported for construct validity analysis. We also assessed our model realism (SRS survey), educational content (CVS survey) and task load (NASA-TLX index). Score items were collected and defined as “favorable” when items were rated ≥ 5/7 with an inter-quartile range (IQR) overlapping four, and “very favorable” when rated ≥ 5/7 with an IQR excluding four (neutral). Primary endpoints were the rectosigmoid junction (RSJ) reaching rate and the descending colon (DC) reaching time. Secondary objectives were SRS, CVS and NASA-TLX questionnaire results. RESULTS: A total of 11 skilled participants, 5 intermediates and 8 novices were included. Skilled participants reached RSJ more often than novice and intermediary groups, respectively, 100%, 80% and 75% without differing significantly. They reached DC more frequently (100% for skilled, 80% for intermediates and 50% for novices, p = 0.018). The median time to reach RSJ (59, 272 and 686 s for skilled, intermediates and novices group, respectively) and DC (90, 534 and 1360 s for skilled, intermediates and novices) was significantly shorter for skilled participants (both p < .01). Nineteen out of the 22 items composing the realism survey obtained “very favorable” and “favorable” scores. Educational content was designated as “very favorable”. Mental, physical, and technical demands were gradually higher the lower the initial level of experience. CONCLUSIONS: Reperfused human cadaver model has the potential to be valid simulation tool for diagnostic colonoscopy training. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00464-022-09763-0.