Teaching basic video skills as an aid in laparoscopic suturing.
BACKGROUND
There is a perception among surgeons that performing laparoscopic suturing is unduly difficult. The purpose of this study is to document a program which aides in learning laparoscopic suturing.


METHODS
Fourteen volunteer medical students without prior experience were taught laparoscopic suturing. Videoscopic pelvitrainers were utilized for a 2-h training session. Extracorporeal and intracorporeal knot tying was demonstrated utilizing a three-throw square knot. After a 2-h practice session each student's time to complete an extracorporeal and intracorporeal suture was recorded.


RESULTS
The average times required for completion were: extracorporeal suture and knot 1 min 54 s; intracorporeal suture and knot 3 min 12 s.


CONCLUSIONS
Novice students were able to perform at extra and intracorporeal suturing with 2 h of practice, utilizing a systematic program of teaching basic video skills.
Champion
J K
JK
Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
Hunter
J
J
Trus
T
T
Laycock
W
W
D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy; D007858:Learning; D009048:Motor Skills; D013337:Students, Medical; D013536:Suture Techniques; D013663:Teaching / Q000379:methods; D013997:Time Factors; D014743:Videotape Recording