Training the novice in laparoscopy. More challenge is better.
BACKGROUND
Virtual reality simulation is effective in training the novice to perform basic laparoscopic skills.


METHODS
Using the Minimally Invasive Surgery Training--Virtual Reality (MIST-VR) trainer, 27 honors high school students were tested at the easy level, prospectively randomized to eight training sessions at the easy (group A, n = 14) or medium (group B, n = 13) level, then retested at the easy level.


RESULTS
Both groups were statistically similar at baseline. All scores improved significantly (50.1% to 81.3%) over the period of training (p < 0.05). Although the group A scores were significantly better than the group B scores throughout training (p < 0.05), on final testing at the easy level, group B surpassed group A for all the tasks except TransferPlace (p = 0.054).


CONCLUSIONS
Virtual simulation is an effective laparoscopic training method for the novice, providing significant improvement in skill levels over a relatively short period. More challenging training seems to predict greater improvement over time and better final skill levels.
Department of Surgery, Medical College of Virginia, 1200 East Broad Street, West Hospital, Floor 15, P.O. Box 980519, Richmond, VA 23298, USA. alimr@hsc.vcu.edu
M R
MR
Ali
Y
Y
Mowery
B
B
Kaplan
E J
EJ
DeMaria
D000293:Adolescent; D017081:Cholecystectomy, Laparoscopic / Q000193:education / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D003198:Computer Simulation; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D008297:Male; D019060:Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures / Q000193:education* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D017145:Models, Educational; D009048:Motor Skills; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011897:Random Allocation; D013334:Students / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D013997:Time Factors; D014584:User-Computer Interface