Development and evaluation of a simulator for training of ultrasound-assisted transrectal gynecological examination of cattle

Aim of this study was to create a simulator for bovine transrectal gynecologic sonographic examination (TSE) regarding cycle determination and its evaluation. Based on the commercially available simulator "Breed'n Betsy (R)" ("BnB (R)"), the Ultrasonic Cow Simulator (UCS) with organs of the abdominal and pelvic cavity was created of ultrasound-conductive materials. UCS was questionnaires-based evaluated by three experimental groups (group 1: students 2nd/3rd semester; group 2: students 9th/10th semester; group 3: veterinarians). Palpatory properties of the UCS were evaluated by all experimental groups and compared with "BnB (R)" by groups 1 and 3. Group 2 and 3 evaluated sonographic properties of UCS. Additional data on self-efficacy and objective performance on live animals were collected by group 2. In total 266 probands participated (group 1 n = 190; group 2 n = 58; group 3 n = 18). The UCS palpatory properties were rated as good (group 1: 94.74%; group 2: 73.33%; group 3: 77.78%). Compared to"BnB (R)" the UCS was perceived as more realistic by 9421% of group 1 and 100% of group 3.96.67% of group 2 and 77.78% of group 3 rated the sonography as good. In objective performance testing on living animals, experienced students performed better. Self-efficacy ratings of the training group were higher (p = 0.0530). TSU is challenging for many students, in part because live animal practice opportunities are often limited. The newly developed simulator for TSE allows training of this skill and can be directly integrated into veterinary medicine studies.