Technical Perspective for Video Based Assessment of Surgeries in Low-Resource Settings

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Digital Health

Background:

• Scalable digital learning environments are crucial for global surgical training.
• High-quality surgical videos with annotations are vital for surgical education.
• Low-resource settings face challenges in accessing advanced surgical training materials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a low-cost method for creating surgical video content in a low-resource setting.
• To contribute to the growth of open-sourced digital surgical resources worldwide.
• To provide practical guidance for recording surgical procedures in resource-limited environments.

Main Methods:

• Participatory and observational experiences in creating surgical video content.
• Recording of 35 surgical procedures between January and December 2018.
• Development of a manual for non-professional cinematographers on shooting surgical procedures.

Main Results:

• A practical, low-cost method for filming surgical procedures in a low-resource setting was established.
• The method involved recording various procedures including hernia repair, C-sections, and amputations.
• Guidance was provided on set-up, recording, and adapting to local customs and possibilities.

Conclusions:

• Commercially available digital video technology is suitable for high-quality surgical filming in rural hospitals.
• The developed method can enhance surgical training in low-resource settings.
• This initiative supports the expansion of open-sourced digital surgical education globally.