Computer-assisted video evaluation of surgical skills

Compact video cameras have allowed the review of operations in self-directed learning sessions. Controlling the video viewing process by computer allows the selection of specific videotape segments containing the desired psychomotor skills to be evaluated--in this study, the steps involving laparoscopic tubal banding. Six faculty members were able to evaluate 23 videotapes efficiently without knowledge of the resident operator's identity. Because the computer allowed selection of only those frames of the videotape containing the skills to be evaluated, the duration of videotape seen was reduced by an average of 34% from the actual surgical time, with an increase in time saved as experience with the system was gained. Faculty members evaluated these events using a self-made checklist. It was possible to calculate the performance scores of each resident for the individual psychomotor skill components of the reviewed procedure. Computer-assisted video evaluation of surgical skills is technically feasible, allowing time-efficient review by multiple evaluators. With the development of psychometrically valid checklists for use with this technology, computer-assisted video evaluation of surgical skills may provide a new, innovative means of assessing surgical skills and training.