Motion Analysis of Ear Surgery Training on an Ovine Model

Motion analysis is crucial for surgical training, especially in intricate procedures like ear surgery. Hand movements during myringotomy and stapedectomy training on a sheep's head model were evaluated in this study using accelerometer-based sensors. The aim is to identify specific motion characteristics-including tremor and speed consistency-that distinguish surgical expertise levels and quantify the efficiency gap between trainees and experts.

Participants (n=24) were divided into three groups: residents (n=10), specialists (n=10), and senior surgeons (n=4). Accelerometer sensors captured data on time, path length, acceleration, tremor, and speed consistency. Data analysis utilized the Kruskal-Wallis test followed by Mann-Whitney U post-hoc comparisons with Bonferroni correction to identify specific inter-group differences.

Significant differences were found across all parameters (p < 0.001). Senior surgeons demonstrated the highest efficiency, performing stapedectomy 70.6% faster than residents and 42.9% faster than specialists. Notable gaps in stability were observed; residents exhibited a 14% lower speed consistency and 66.7% higher tremor levels compared to seniors. Specialists occupied an intermediate phase but still maintained a 42.8% higher tremor rate than senior surgeons, indicating a prolonged refinement period for fine motor control.

The data reveal a clear, quantifiable learning curve. Residents require significantly more time and exhibit less controlled movements, while specialists show technical refinement but have not yet reached the high-level economy of motion seen in seniors. These objective metrics, particularly efficiency gaps and stability consistency, can help tailor training programs to focus on precision and economy of motion.