Training in laparoscopic suturing skills using a new computer-based virtual reality simulator (MIST-VR) provides results comparable to those with an established pelvic trainer system.
BACKGROUND
We hypothesized that the Minimally Invasive Surgery Trainer (MIST-VR; VP Medical R, London, U.K.) would be as effective as the Yale Laparoscopic Skills Course in improving laparoscopic intracorporeal suturing skills.


METHODS
Each student made six attempts to tie a knot laparoscopically. Students were then randomized to train on the MIST-VR for five sessions (six skills/session) or the Yale Skills for five sessions (three skills/session) over 5 days. On completion of training, all students were evaluated by a test consisting of six attempts to tie a laparoscopic knot.


RESULTS
The percentage improvement in knot tying time did not differ significantly in the pelvic trainer group (30 +/- 21%) (from 443 +/- 135 to 311 +/- 137 seconds) and the MIST-VR group (39 +/- 21%) (from 409 +/- 109 to 256 +/- 140 seconds) (P = 0.308).


CONCLUSIONS
The MIST-VR is equivalent to the Yale Skills Course for training in the advanced laparoscopic skill of intracorporeal suturing.
Department of Surgery and Center for Minimally Invasive Surgery, Medical College of Virginia Campus of Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 23298, USA.
Shanu N
SN
Kothari
Brian J
BJ
Kaplan
Eric J
EJ
DeMaria
Timothy J
TJ
Broderick
Ronald C
RC
Merrell
D000328:Adult; D002983:Clinical Competence; D004504:Education, Medical, Undergraduate; D005260:Female; D013502:General Surgery / Q000193:education*; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy; D008297:Male; D013536:Suture Techniques / Q000193:education*; D014584:User-Computer Interface