Development and Evaluation of a Surgical Simulator and Assessment Rubric for Standing Castration of the Horse.

This article focuses on the design, creation, and evaluation of a low-technology simulator for teaching standing open castration in horses, a common equine surgical procedure. The simulator, constructed from molded silicone testicles, cohesive bandage, stockings, socks, and suspended beneath a pony mannequin, was assessed by university academic staff veterinarians, private equine practitioners, and final-year veterinary students using a rubric and feedback questionnaires. Results showed positive perceptions of the simulator’s realism and usefulness, with 98% of participants endorsing its inclusion in the veterinary curriculum and 100% of students reporting increased confidence in performing the procedure after use. The rubric demonstrated good reliability, and student performance scores were significantly lower than those of qualified veterinarians, supporting its effectiveness as a teaching tool. The study concludes that this affordable, low-fidelity simulator effectively facilitates skill development and confidence in standing open equine castration within veterinary education.