Validation of a simplified evaluation grid applied to the microsurgery on inert material via smartphone

Microsurgery is usually performed in experimental research models and clinical surgery. It requires meticulous technical skills and continuous training. Inert materials such as Shirataki noodles are readily available and low-cost consumables regularly used for practice. The objective of this study was to evaluate the repeatability and reproducibility of a simplified evaluation grid of suture on inert material (Shirataki Konnyaku noodle) under smartphone magnification.

Ten students performed end-to-end suture on inert material with magnification via their smartphone. Each suture was filmed, and the videos were randomized. Each student was evaluated on each video three times over three consecutive days, using a simplified evaluation grid. Intra- and inter-observer agreement was evaluated on Concordance Correlation Coefficients. Values were assessed on Pearson's correlation coefficient.

Intra-observer correlation was weak for 2 items (0.288 and 0.246) and moderate for the other 2 (0.419 and 0.529). Inter-observer correlation was weak for 3 items (0.344, 0.358, and 0.276) and close to zero for the other (0.034).

This simplified evaluation grid for microsurgery training on inert material via smartphone was poorly repeatable and reproducible. Loss of certain items in the grid due to the use of inert material probably impaired relevance.