Validity of a cross-specialty test in basic laparoscopic techniques (TABLT).

BACKGROUND: Box trainer systems have been developed that include advanced skills such as suturing. There is still a need for a portable, cheap training and testing system for basic laparoscopic techniques that can be used across different specialties before performing supervised surgery on patients. The aim of this study was to establish validity evidence for the Training and Assessment of Basic Laparoscopic Techniques (TABLT) test, a tablet-based training system.

METHODS: Laparoscopic surgeons and trainees were recruited from departments of general surgery, gynaecology and urology. Participants included novice, intermediate and experienced surgeons. All participants performed the TABLT test. Performance scores were calculated based on time taken and errors made. Evidence of validity was explored using a contemporary framework of validity.

RESULTS: Some 60 individuals participated. The TABLT was shown to be reliable, with an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.99 (P < 0.001). ANOVA showed a difference between the groups with different level of experience (P < 0.001). The Bonferroni correction was used to confirm this finding. A Pearson's r value of 0.73 (P < 0.001) signified a good positive correlation between the level of laparoscopic experience and performance score. A reasonable pass-fail standard was established using contrasting groups methods.

CONCLUSION: TABLT can be used for the assessment of basic laparoscopic skills and can help novice surgical trainees in different specialties gain basic laparoscopic competencies.