Face validity study of the ProMIS augmented reality laparoscopic suturing simulator

Area of Science:

• Surgical simulation
• Medical education technology
• Augmented reality in surgery

Background:

• Laparoscopic surgery requires specialized training to minimize errors.
• Simulation offers a safe environment for surgical skill acquisition.
• Augmented Reality (AR) simulators are emerging tools for surgical training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the face validity of the ProMIS AR laparoscopic simulator.
• To assess its utility in training surgical suturing skills.
• To compare expert and novice surgeon perceptions of the simulator.

Main Methods:

• A 12-item Likert scale questionnaire was administered to 50 surgeons (23 experts, 27 novices).
• Participants rated the simulator's realism, tactile feedback, ergonomics, and design.
• Non-parametric statistics were used to analyze differences between groups.

Main Results:

• High consensus existed among both groups, rating ProMIS as useful for teaching suturing skills (mean scores ~4.9/5).
• Participants found the simulator realistic with good tactile feedback and technique training.
• Significant differences were noted between expert and novice groups regarding ergonomics and design.

Conclusions:

• The ProMIS AR laparoscopic simulator demonstrates strong face validity as a valuable tool for surgical training.
• It is perceived as effective for teaching laparoscopic suturing skills by both experienced and less experienced surgeons.
• While design and ergonomics perceptions differed between groups, overall utility was affirmed.