Comparison of laparoscopy training using the box trainer versus the virtual trainer

Area of Science:

• Surgical Education
• Medical Simulation
• Minimally Invasive Surgery

Background:

• Laparoscopic surgery requires extensive hands-on training.
• Traditional training methods rely on physical box trainers.
• Virtual reality simulators offer a novel approach to surgical skills acquisition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) laparoscopic simulators versus traditional box trainers for skills development.
• To evaluate the impact of VR training on laparoscopic performance metrics.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-six subjects trained on a box trainer (control group).
• Seventeen subjects trained on a VR simulator and box trainer (experimental group).
• Performance was assessed on time and accuracy; self-evaluation and user satisfaction were recorded.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in accuracy improvement between VR and box trainer groups.
• Control group showed significant improvement in pegboard and pattern cutting times.
• Experimental group reported increased interest in surgical fields (70.6% vs. 53.8%).

Conclusions:

• Virtual reality simulators are a practical alternative for laparoscopic skills training.
• VR simulation may enhance trainee engagement and interest in surgery.
• Further research may explore optimizing VR training protocols for specific skills.