Conventional box model training improves laparoscopic skills during salpingectomy on LapSim: a randomized trial

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Simulation
• Laparoscopic Surgery

Background:

• Box model trainers are widely used for laparoscopic skill development.
• Limited data exist on their effectiveness, especially when assessed by virtual reality (VR) systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of structured box model training on laparoscopic skill acquisition.
• To assess skill improvement using VR-based objective parameters.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-two gynecology residents without prior laparoscopic experience were randomized into a training group and a control group.
• All participants performed a simulated salpingectomy on LapSim before and after the intervention.
• Objective VR parameters (time, damage, economy of motion) were used for assessment.

Main Results:

• No initial differences were observed between groups.
• The box trainer group demonstrated significantly greater improvements in time and economy of motion scores post-training compared to the control group.

Conclusions:

• Low-cost box model training positively impacts laparoscopic skill acquisition, validated by VR assessment.
• Novice surgeons benefit from box trainer practice, and training centers should prioritize establishing such facilities.