Does mental imagery make a difference in virtual reality simulation training? Results of a randomized controlled...

Area of Science:

• Surgical Education
• Medical Simulation
• Cognitive Training

Background:

• Virtual Reality Simulation Training (VRST) is a key tool for surgical education.
• The role of mental imagery (MI) in enhancing surgical skills, particularly within VRST, requires further investigation.
• Novice laparoscopic surgeons benefit from structured training programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of mental imagery (MI) on laparoscopic cholecystectomy performance.
• To compare the effectiveness of MI combined with VRST versus VRST alone in surgical training.
• To assess skill acquisition in both simulated and box-trainer environments.

Main Methods:

• Novice surgeons were randomized to MI + VRST or VRST alone.
• Performance in VRST was assessed by time and instrument path length.
• Technical skills in a box-trainer porcine model were evaluated using a modified Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS) score.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in VRST performance between groups.
• The MI group showed significantly better performance in 'Respect for Tissue' and 'Use of the Assistant' subscales (p=0.037, p=0.035).
• Overall OSATS scores and other subscales did not differ significantly between groups.

Conclusions:

• Mental imagery did not enhance overall laparoscopic cholecystectomy performance in a box-trainer model.
• MI significantly improved specific skills (tissue handling, assistant use) not easily trained by VRST.
• Further research is needed to optimize training modalities combining VRST and MI for surgical education.