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Validation of a novel basic virtual reality simulator, the LAP-X, for training basic laparoscopic skills.
Koji Kawaguchi1, Hiroyuki Egi, Minoru Hattori
1Department of Gastroenterological and Transplant Surgery, Applied Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical & Health Sciences, Hiroshima University , Hiroshima , Japan.
Summary
The Lap-X virtual reality simulator shows strong face, content, and construct validity for laparoscopic surgical training. This VR tool is effective for both novice and expert surgeons to practice basic skills.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Education
- Medical Simulation
- Virtual Reality Technology
Background:
- Virtual reality (VR) surgical simulators are increasingly used for laparoscopic skills practice.
- The Lap-X is a new VR simulator designed for foundational laparoscopic surgery training.
- This study aimed to validate the Lap-X simulator for its suitability in basic surgical skills acquisition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the face, content, and construct validity of the Lap-X VR surgical simulator.
- To determine if the Lap-X is an adequate tool for training basic laparoscopic skills.
Main Methods:
- Face and content validity were assessed via a structured questionnaire.
- Construct validity was evaluated by comparing the performance of nine expert surgeons and eleven novices on three basic laparoscopic tasks using the Lap-X simulator.
Main Results:
- Participants reported high content validity for the Lap-X simulator.
- Expert surgeons demonstrated significantly better performance on all tasks compared to novices (P < 0.05).
- No significant differences in perceived validity were found between expert and novice groups.
Conclusions:
- The Lap-X simulator demonstrates robust face, content, and construct validity.
- The Lap-X shows significant potential as a valuable training device in both home and hospital settings.
- The simulator is validated as an effective tool for basic laparoscopic skills training.
