Learning Curve Associated With an Automated Laparoscopic Suturing Device Compared With Laparoscopic Suturing

Area of Science:

• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Surgical Education
• Medical Device Technology

Background:

• Laparoscopic suturing is a difficult skill, often hindering minimally invasive procedures.
• Mastery of laparoscopic suturing is crucial for successful surgical outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the learning curves of a novel suturing device against traditional laparoscopic techniques.
• To evaluate the efficiency and proficiency of surgical residents using different suturing methods.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, single-blinded, non-randomized controlled crossover study involving 19 general surgery residents.
• Participants performed knot tying and suturing tasks using the Endo360 device and traditional laparoscopic techniques (TLT).
• Proficiency was assessed by task completion time (TCT), dots on target (DoT), and total deviation (D), benchmarked against expert surgeons.

Main Results:

• The Endo360 device showed a significantly shorter learning curve in terms of attempts needed to reach proficiency for beginner residents (P = .0027).
• Task completion time (TCT) was significantly reduced with Endo360 compared to TLT (P < .0001).
• While Endo360 demonstrated lower accuracy (fewer DoT and less D), proficiency in these metrics did not significantly differ with increasing trials.

Conclusions:

• The novel suturing device facilitates a quicker learning curve for novice surgeons in laparoscopic suturing.
• Endo360 significantly decreases the time required to complete suturing tasks for both beginner and advanced residents.
• The device offers a promising alternative for improving laparoscopic suturing skills and efficiency.