Optimizing skill acquisition: the role of self-assessment during a continuous training program for laparoscopic
Vera Hillemans1, Daan J Verhoeven2, Xander van de Mortel2
1Department of Surgery, Radboud University Medical Center (Radboudumc), Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, Route 618, 6500HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands. verahillemans@hotmail.com.
Surgical Endoscopy
|March 25, 2025
Summary
Lower frequency self-assessment and reflection before practice in laparoscopic suturing training optimizes learning efficiency. This approach enhances instrument use and patient safety, making it a recommended training strategy for surgical skills development.
Area of Science:
- Minimally invasive surgery
- Surgical education
- Skill acquisition
Background:
- Laparoscopic suturing is a complex skill crucial for minimally invasive surgery.
- Self-assessment and reflection can improve the learning curve for laparoscopic suturing.
- The optimal frequency for these reflective practices is not well-defined.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of different frequencies of self-assessment and reflection on laparoscopic suturing training.
- To determine the most efficient training strategy for mastering laparoscopic suturing skills.
Main Methods:
- Participants (students, residents, PhD students) trained using a laparoscopic simulator.
- Three groups were compared: control (no self-assessment), periodic self-assessment, and continuous self-assessment.
- Performance was measured using the Laparoscopic Suturing Competency Assessment Tool (LS-CAT) and SurgTrac software parameters (time, distance, off-screen time, acceleration, smoothness, speed).
Main Results:
- No significant differences in primary outcomes (time, distance) between groups.
- Self-assessment groups showed significant improvements in secondary outcomes: reduced off-screen time, increased acceleration and smoothness, and enhanced speed.
- These improvements favored the self-assessment groups, particularly in smoothness and acceleration.
Conclusions:
- Self-assessment and reflection before practice can improve instrument handling and safety in laparoscopic surgery.
- A lower frequency of self-assessment and reflection provides comparable benefits to continuous practice.
- Optimizing training efficiency through less frequent, targeted self-assessment is recommended for laparoscopic suturing.
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