Quality-based assessment of laparoscopic camera navigation for resident surgeons - A randomised control study

Area of Science:

• Surgical Education
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Medical Simulation

Background:

• Laparoscopic surgery has transformed surgical practice.
• Effective camera navigation is crucial for successful laparoscopic procedures.
• Laparoscopic camera navigation demands specialized psychomotor and visuospatial skills.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of the objective structured assessment of camera navigation skills (OSA-CNS) as a feedback and assessment tool for surgical residents.
• To determine if OSA-CNS can objectively measure and improve laparoscopic camera navigation proficiency.

Main Methods:

• A single-center randomized study involving 24 surgical residents (12 per group).
• Participants were assessed on five key camera navigation parameters during laparoscopic cholecystectomies.
• The test group received OSA-CNS feedback, while the control group did not.

Main Results:

• The test group demonstrated statistically significant improvements in OSA-CNS scores compared to the control group (P < 0.001).
• Analysis of variance confirmed continuous score improvement in the test group after each assessment (F = 23.45, P < 0.001).
• Residents reported that the objective assessment enhanced their navigation skills.

Conclusions:

• The OSA-CNS is a viable and reliable tool for assessing laparoscopic camera navigation skills.
• Structured assessment using OSA-CNS effectively improves camera navigation abilities.
• OSA-CNS holds significant potential for advancing surgical training programs.