TY  - EJOU
AU  - Hoestermann, Mitchell 
AU  - Merkin, Regan 
AU  - Quarrier, Scott O. 
AU  - Li, Ashley 
AU  - Lu, Yadong 
AU  - Jain, Rajat Kumar 
AU  - Joseph, Jean 
AU  - Osinski, Thomas 

TI  - Feasibility and user perception of a hydrogel-based platform for introductory LEP training
T2  - Canadian Journal of Urology

PY  - 
VL  - 
IS  - 
SN  - 1488-5581

AB  -  <b>Background:</b> Laser enucleation of the prostate (LEP) remains underutilized despite strong guideline support, partly because of its steep learning curve and limited access to realistic simulation tools. We developed a hydrogel model incorporating a penis, prostate, distensible bladder, and pelvis, and conducted a pilot feasibility study to evaluate usability and face validity during a hands-on workshop. <b>Methods:</b> This prospective, single-session pilot study was conducted during the 2024 Northeastern Section of the American Urological Association (NSAUA) meeting. Nine LEP novices (two attendings, one fellow, six residents) each performed enucleation of a 75 g hydrogel prostate using a thulium fiber laser under expert mentorship. Feasibility was defined as the ability to complete the enucleation using standard instrumentation. Face validity and usability were assessed using post-workshop 5-point Likert questionnaires. Exploratory performance metrics (laser time, tissue weight, energy use) were collected to demonstrate procedural feasibility but not to evaluate competency. <b>Results:</b> All participants completed the simulated enucleation. Face validity ratings exceeded the predefined threshold (overall mean 4.26), and 100% agreed that the model contained all relevant anatomy. Participants rated the difficulty as appropriate and reported that it realistically supported scope manipulation. Exploratory performance data showed wide variability among novices but confirmed that full enucleation was achievable. <b>Conclusions:</b> This hydrogel model demonstrates feasibility and strong face validity as an introductory LEP training platform. Its low consumable cost, anatomic realism, and compatibility with standard LEP equipment make it well-suited for workshops and residency curricula. Further studies will evaluate expert-based content validity and construct validity.
KW  - laser enucleation of the prostate; benign prostatic hyperplasia; hydrogel simulation model; urology education; surgical training

DO  - 10.32604/cju.2026.078662