Feedback in laparoscopic skills acquisition: an observational study during a basic skills training course.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Minimally Invasive Surgery

Background:

• Laparoscopic surgery requires specialized skills.
• Effective feedback is crucial for skill acquisition in surgical residents.
• The impact of expert feedback on early laparoscopic skill development needs further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of expert feedback on residents' self-perceived laparoscopic skills.
• To identify which laparoscopic skills benefit most from feedback.
• To determine the optimal timing for attending basic laparoscopic skills courses during residency.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire was administered to 24 residents (postgraduate years 1-5) after a basic laparoscopic skills training course.
• Participants reported on the feedback received and their self-perceived skill improvement.
• Feedback distribution and skill improvement were analyzed across different laparoscopic tasks.

Main Results:

• Intracorporeal knot tying received the most extensive feedback (47%).
• Camera navigation and body positioning received minimal feedback.
• Self-perceived competence significantly improved in knot tying and cutting, but not in camera navigation, body positioning, pointing, or grasping.

Conclusions:

• Expert feedback is most beneficial early in the learning curve for laparoscopic skills.
• Basic laparoscopic skills courses should be attended early in surgical residency.
• Clear, shared training objectives are essential for effective feedback delivery and skill development.