Training in Transvaginal Sonography Using Pelvic Ultrasound Simulators Versus Live Models: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Purpose To compare pelvic ultrasound simulators (PSs) with live models (LMs) for training in transvaginal sonography (TVS). Method The authors conducted a prospective, randomized controlled trial of 145 eligible medical students trained in TVS in 2011-2012 with either a PS or an LM. A patient educator was used for LM training. Simulated intrauterine and ectopic pregnancy models were used for PS training. Students were tested using a standardized patient who evaluated their professionalism. A proctor, blinded to training type, scored their scanning technique. Digital images were saved for blinded review. Students rated their training using a Likert scale (0 = not very well; 10 = very well). The primary outcome measure was students' overall performance on a 40-point assessment tool for professionalism, scanning technique, and image acquisition. Poisson regression and Student t test were used for comparisons. Results A total of 134 students participated (62 trained using a PS; 72 using an LM). Mean overall test scores were 56% for the PS group and 69% for the LM group (P = .001). A significant difference was identified in scanning technique (PS, 60% versus LM, 73%; P = .001) and image acquisition (PS, 37% versus LM, 59%; P = .001). None was observed for professionalism. The PS group rated their training experience at 4.4, whereas the LM group rated theirs at 6.2 (P < .001). Conclusions Simulators do not perform as well as LMs for training novices in TVS, but they may be useful as an adjunct to LM training.