Metrics used to evaluate obstetric ultrasound skills on simulators: A systematic review

Abstract

Obstetric ultrasound simulators are now used for training and evaluating OB/GYN students but there is a lack of literature about evaluation metrics in this setting. In this literature review, we searched MEDLINE and the COCHRANE database using the keywords: (Obstetric OR Fetal) AND (Sonography OR Ultrasound) AND Simulation. Of a total of 263 studies screened, we selected nine articles from the title and the abstract in PubMed, in the past 5 years. Two more article were added from bibliographies. A total of 11 articles were therefore included. from which nine articles were selected from the title and the abstract in PubMed. Two more articles were added from the bibliographies For each study, data about the type of simulation, and the metrics (qualitative or quantitative) used for assessment were collected. The selection of studies shows that evaluation criteria for ultrasound training were qualitative metrics (binary success/fail exercise ; dexterity quoted by an external observer ; Objective Structured Assessment of Ultrasound Skills (OSAUS) Score ; quality of images according to Salomon's score) or quantitative criteria (Accuracy of Biometry - Simulator generated metrics). Most studies used a combination of both. To date, simulator metrics used to discriminate ultrasound skills are performance score quoted by external observers and image quality scoring. Whether probe trajectory metrics can be used to discriminate skills is unknown.

Keywords: Education; Evaluation; Metrics; Obstetrics; Simulation training; Ultrasound.