A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Trainee-Directed Virtual Reality Simulation Training and Box Trainer on the...

Area of Science:

• Surgical Education
• Medical Simulation
• Laparoscopic Surgery

Background:

• Laparoscopic surgery requires specialized skills, including suturing.
• Objective assessment of novice proficiency in laparoscopic suturing is crucial for effective training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) simulators and box trainers versus no training for novice laparoscopic suturing skill acquisition.
• To evaluate trainees' self-assessment accuracy regarding their laparoscopic suturing proficiency.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial (RCT) involving novices with no prior laparoscopic suturing experience.
• Participants were assigned to VR simulator, box trainer, or control (no training) groups.
• Skills were assessed using the modified Global Operative Assessment of Laparoscopic Skills (GOALS) questionnaire in a box trainer.

Main Results:

• No significant differences were observed in task completion rates, suturing time, or modified GOALS scores across the VR simulator, box trainer, and control groups.
• Participants with no prior experience required longer training durations.
• Trainees demonstrated an inability to accurately self-assess their skill level in laparoscopic suturing.

Conclusions:

• Current VR simulators and box trainers do not significantly enhance novice laparoscopic suturing skill acquisition compared to no training.
• Novices require extended training periods to master laparoscopic suturing skills.
• Self-assessment of skill level in laparoscopic suturing is unreliable for trainees.