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.
Kothari
Shanu N
SN
Department of Surgery and Center for Minimally Invasive Surgery, Medical College of Virginia Campus of Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 23298, USA.
Kaplan
Brian J
BJ
DeMaria
Eric J
EJ
Broderick
Timothy J
TJ
Merrell
Ronald C
RC
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