The San Antonio kidney transplant model: validity evidence and proficiency benchmarks

Simulation has become an increasingly important tool in training complex and high-stake surgical techniques, including kidney transplantation. While several transplant models have been described, there remains a need for low-cost model with established proficiency targets. We developed to simulate renal vein iliac end-to-side anastomosis, proficiency-based curriculum prepare evaluate trainees. This low-fidelity utilizes constrained space adjustable depth the fossa, replaceable Penrose drains as vascular conduits. 18 novices (PGY1), 19 junior intermediates (PGY 2–3), 7 senior 4–5) 6 experts (faculty surgeons) each performed anastomoses on model. Three metrics were used rate performance—completion time, scoring rubric, composite technical score (CTS) formula. Messick’s validity framework was rubric provide evidence content alignment, response process validity, internal structure construct validity. Resident participants reported easy set up (8.6/10) added value their education (9.8/10). Transplant surgery faculty realistically simulated anastomosis (8.3/10), supporting alignment. One-way ANOVAs of three statistically significant across all skill levels (p < 0.001), Response achieved using blinded raters review video performances. Finally, inter-rater reliability obtained intraclass correlation coefficient 0.896 (< utilized low-cost, rubric. Furthermore, we provided benchmarks trainees train towards. is well suited preparing perform vivo transplants.