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Development of an evidence-based training program for laparoscopic hysterectomy on a virtual reality simulator
Patrice Crochet1, Rajesh Aggarwal2, Sophie Knight3
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Marseille, La Conception Hospital, Aix Marseille Université, 147 Boulevard Baille, 13005, Marseille, France. pcrochet.marseille@gmail.com.
Surgical Endoscopy
|September 23, 2016
Summary
This study validates a virtual reality simulator for laparoscopic hysterectomy (LH) training. The simulator effectively differentiates surgeon experience levels, supporting curriculum development for complex gynecologic procedures.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Education
- Medical Simulation
- Gynecologic Surgery
Background:
- Simulation is supported for surgical education, but curricula for complex gynecologic laparoscopic procedures are lacking.
- A virtual reality (VR) simulator program was developed to replicate key components of laparoscopic hysterectomy (LH) until colpotomy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the validity of a VR simulator program for laparoscopic hysterectomy (LH).
- To develop an evidence-based, stepwise training curriculum for LH using the VR simulator.
Main Methods:
- A prospective cohort study involved 40 participants categorized into experienced, intermediate, and inexperienced groups.
- Participants performed the LH procedure on a high-fidelity VR simulator, with validity assessed by differentiating experience levels.
- Simulator metrics and Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS) scores were used as outcome measures.
Main Results:
- Significant differences were found between groups in time, movements, path length, idle time, tissue respect, and bladder injuries (p < 0.01).
- Learning curves plateaued between the 2nd and 6th repetitions.
- Significant inter-group differences in OSATS scores were observed after the first and second repetitions (p < 0.001).
Conclusions:
- The VR program for laparoscopic hysterectomy (LH) has accrued validity evidence.
- The simulator facilitates the development of a structured, evidence-based training curriculum for LH.
