The Impact of a Self-Directed, Low-Cost Laparoscopic Simulation-Based Training Model Among Surgical Trainees in...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Minimally Invasive Surgery

Background:

• Laparoscopic surgery training in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) is limited by a lack of skilled surgeons.
• Self-directed, low-cost simulation-based training offers a potential solution to bridge this gap.
• This study evaluated the impact of simulation training on surgical residents' knowledge and skills.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the laparoscopic skills and knowledge of surgery residents with and without simulation training.
• To assess the effectiveness of a novel, case-based laparoscopic cholecystectomy simulation module.
• To determine if simulation training improves cognitive and psychomotor skills in surgical residents.

Main Methods:

• Two groups of Cameroonian surgery residents were compared: Group A (3 years of simulation training) and Group B (no simulation exposure).
• Participants completed cognitive and psychomotor assessments for a laparoscopic cholecystectomy module.
• Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to analyze differences in pre- and post-training scores, task completion time, and skill assessments.

Main Results:

• Simulation-trained residents (Group A) showed significantly higher posttest scores (p=0.005) compared to the simulation-naive group (Group B).
• Group A demonstrated significantly faster task completion times (p<0.001) and superior global assessment scores (p<0.001).
• Simulation-trained residents exhibited more accurate self-ratings compared to their peers, unlike the simulation-naive group.

Conclusions:

• Long-term, self-directed simulation-based training enhances both cognitive and psychomotor laparoscopic skills.
• Low-cost simulation training is a viable method for developing surgical proficiency in laparoscopy.
• Simulation training can help overcome barriers to laparoscopic surgery education in resource-limited settings.